Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has been handed another fitness setback after Dean Huijsen was forced to leave Spain’s national team camp due to physical discomfort.
The summer arrival completed the entire match in Madrid’s 3–1 victory over Villarreal before travelling to join the national setup. However, he sat out subsequent training sessions after informing staff of muscle issues.
According to the Spanish Football Federation, the young defender experienced “muscle fatigue,” which prompted immediate medical checks. These assessments concluded that he would not be able to take part in the current international fixtures.
Huijsen has since returned to Madrid, where further examinations revealed a calf injury. Although not considered severe, the lack of a specific recovery timeline has raised concerns within the club.
Tight schedule puts Huijsen’s Clásico involvement in doubt
Barcelona’s visit to the Santiago Bernabéu on October 26 leaves the 19-year-old with just over two weeks to regain full fitness. Reports from Spanish outlet AS suggest the club’s medical team estimates a 12–15 day absence, making his availability for the season’s first El Clásico uncertain.
His expected spell on the sidelines means he is almost certain to miss Madrid’s upcoming league game away to Getafe on October 19. His participation in the Champions League clash with Juventus on October 22 also remains in question, with the club unwilling to take unnecessary risks.
Defensive shortages pile pressure on Madrid coach
Madrid’s back line has already been stretched by multiple injuries, and Huijsen’s situation adds to the growing list of absentees. Alonso is currently missing Antonio Rüdiger, Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, leaving limited options in defense.
Éder Militão is set to retain his place at the heart of the back four, with Raúl Asencio or David Alaba likely to partner him in central defense. Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could once again be deployed at right back, a role in which he has excelled in recent months, including during the recent win over Villarreal.
