Real Madrid is grappling with persistent injury concerns for their young defender, Dean Huijsen, whose anticipated return to the field has been postponed once again. Initially sidelined with a calf muscle issue expected to keep him out for approximately five to seven days, the club had harbored hopes of his participation in the UEFA Champions League playoff's second leg against Benfica. However, these aspirations were unmet, as his recovery has not progressed as quickly as wished, leaving his immediate availability in question.
The latest update indicates that Huijsen will not be ready for the upcoming match against Getafe on Monday, extending his period on the sidelines. This news comes as a blow to Real Madrid, which is already facing defensive strains, especially after Raul Asencio also sustained an injury in a recent game. The accumulation of defensive setbacks is creating a challenging period for the team as they approach crucial fixtures.
Despite the current delay, there is a glimmer of optimism regarding Huijsen's eventual return. The team is hopeful that he will be fit enough to play some part in the game against Celta Vigo. Following that, he is expected to be fully recovered and prepared to contribute in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. This timeline suggests a phased reintroduction to competitive play, allowing him to regain full fitness without undue pressure.
Huijsen's prolonged absence is particularly disheartening given his promising start to the season. The 20-year-old defender had been making a significant impact, demonstrating his capabilities on the field. His contributions so far include 17 league starts for Real Madrid in La Liga, where he has registered one goal and two assists. Furthermore, he has been instrumental in securing five clean sheets and boasts an impressive average of over ten defensive actions per game, highlighting his importance to the squad.
The ongoing challenge posed by Huijsen's injury underscores a critical period for Real Madrid's defensive unit. His consistent performance and defensive prowess have been a key asset, and his continued unavailability places additional pressure on the remaining squad members. As the team navigates through this tough phase, the focus remains on managing existing injuries and ensuring the healthy return of key players to maintain competitive form in both domestic and international competitions.