Dean Huijsen, a 19-year-old centre-back, has been making waves in the Premier League with his outstanding performances for Bournemouth. Born in Amsterdam, this Dutch football prodigy has represented the Netherlands at the youth level and Spain at the U21 level. Known for his maturity and goal threat, Huijsen has quickly become a cornerstone of Bournemouth's defence. His ability to read danger and make crucial interceptions sets him apart as one of the top centre-backs in the league, particularly for interceptions per 90 minutes.
Huijsen has started 17 consecutive games for Bournemouth in all competitions, showcasing his reliability and consistency. Playing alongside Illia Zabarnyi, who was recently suspended, Huijsen has embraced greater responsibility on the field. Adding to his defensive prowess, he has scored two goals for Bournemouth, including a remarkable long-range effort. His attacking instincts have also seen him come close to scoring against teams like Brentford, Everton, and Fulham.
A Versatile Defender with Offensive Flair
Huijsen's versatility and ability to use both feet have drawn comparisons to Sergio Ramos, a player he idolized during his formative years. His former coach, Juan Jesus Gutierrez Robles, has praised Huijsen for his strong ambition and belief in himself. Robles recalls Huijsen's impressive goal-scoring record as a centre-back, noting his ability to score 12 goals in half a season for their U15 team.
"He scored 12 goals in half a season playing for our U15s. As a centre-back." – Robles
Huijsen's intention to score is evident in his gameplay, something that is typically rare among centre-backs. His physical attributes, combined with his determination, enable him to outperform even the best defenders marking him.
"He has the intention to score and that's what helps him do it." – Juanito
Despite being tall, which often results in being marked by top defenders, Huijsen's determination makes him an exception. His natural instincts on the field are reminiscent of those found in strikers rather than defenders.
"You see that a lot in strikers but it's very rare in centre-backs and it's not something you can teach. You either have it or you don't." – Juanito
Rising Interest from Top Clubs
Huijsen's impressive performances have not gone unnoticed by Europe's football elite. Real Madrid and Liverpool have shown interest in acquiring his services, recognizing his potential to become one of the world's best centre-backs. His former coach Juanito expressed confidence in Huijsen's future prospects.
"I have no doubt that he will be one of the best centre-backs in the world for the next 10 years." – Juanito
The young defender's ambition is matched by his work ethic and preparation. Juanito highlighted that Huijsen's father played a significant role in shaping his career by investing in resources like a camera to analyze and improve his son's performance.
"His father spared no expense to help his son become a footballer." – Juanito
This familial support has been instrumental in Huijsen's development, allowing him to focus on refining his skills and overcoming challenges.
Family Support and Personal Growth
Dean Huijsen's journey from Amsterdam to England is marked by the unwavering support of his family, who have joined him overseas. Their presence provides him with a stable foundation as he navigates the demanding world of professional football. His family’s commitment to his success has been evident since his early days at Malaga, where he first caught the eye of coaches with his physical and technical attributes.
"His physical and technical attributes were obvious at Malaga but what stood out most about him most to me was the determination and ambition he had about being a footballer." – Juanito
"It is not just that he wants it, it is that he has done absolutely everything he can to achieve it. He trains better than anyone, he prepares better than anyone, he corrects his mistakes better than anyone." – Juanito
Huijsen continues to develop both professionally and personally, maintaining the humility and drive that have brought him this far. As he builds on his impressive start at Bournemouth, he remains focused on honing his skills and contributing to the team's success.
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