Real Madrid are entering a tense period as they prepare for El Clasico, with the latest Huijsen injury update raising concerns over the team’s defensive stability. The 20-year-old centre-back, Dean Huijsen, remains a doubt for the high-stakes clash against Barcelona after suffering a micro-tear in his left soleus muscle during Madrid’s recent victory over Villarreal. With key defenders Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold also sidelined, Real Madrid’s backline is facing one of its most challenging weeks of the season.
Huijsen Injury Update: Micro-Tear Complicates Recovery
Initial reports suggested Huijsen’s injury was a minor overload, but further assessment revealed a more serious micro-tear, requiring a two-week recovery window. According to AS, Huijsen left Spain’s national camp and has been undertaking intensive rehabilitation under Real Madrid’s medical team. His routine combines physiotherapy, gym work, and carefully timed rest periods, including short breaks in Malaga to maintain mental freshness.
“The objective is clear,” a Real Madrid source told AS. “We want Dean ready for Barcelona, but we cannot risk rushing him. Soleus injuries are delicate, and a relapse could keep him out for weeks.”
This cautious approach underlines the club’s awareness of the risk of aggravating the injury. With only ten days to go until the Clasico, Huijsen’s availability remains uncertain, and any setback could force significant tactical adjustments.
Race Against Time: Will Huijsen Feature in El Clasico?
Based on current recovery projections, Huijsen was expected to return around the time of the Clasico. However, progress has been slower than anticipated, already ruling him out of the upcoming LaLiga match against Getafe. The medical team continues to monitor his rehabilitation closely, fully aware that premature returns could jeopardize both his long-term fitness and Madrid’s defensive cohesion.
If Huijsen is unavailable, Xabi Alonso has several options. Raul Asencio is currently the leading alternative, followed by David Alaba. Tactical reshuffles could see Ferland Mendy shift to full-back while Alvaro Carreras takes up a central role, though the ideal defensive pairing remains Huijsen alongside Eder Militao, provided he is fit.
Defensive Depth Tested as Injuries Mount
The Huijsen injury update also highlights a wider defensive crisis for Real Madrid. Club captain Dani Carvajal is recovering from a thigh strain suffered at the Metropolitano, and Trent Alexander-Arnold is continuing light training but is not yet match-ready. Eder Militao, recently back from a long ACL layoff, is currently the only fully fit first-choice centre-back.
If both Huijsen and Carvajal are unavailable, Federico Valverde may be deployed as a makeshift right-back. The Uruguayan has performed impressively in this role earlier this season, offering defensive stability and providing attacking width. However, relying on a midfielder in defence is far from ideal against a Barcelona side poised just behind Los Blancos in the LaLiga table.
Huijsen’s Role in Madrid’s Tactical Setup
Since breaking into the first team, Dean Huijsen has been praised for his composure, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game. His presence in central defence allows Real Madrid to play with greater confidence and positional balance. Without him, Alonso may need to reconsider defensive strategies, particularly against a Barcelona attack that thrives on quick transitions and width.
Madrid’s medical team is keen to avoid rushing players back, mindful that upcoming Champions League fixtures against Juventus and Liverpool require full-strength squad options. Balancing recovery with preparation is critical, and the Huijsen injury update remains a focal point as the countdown to El Clasico continues.
Implications of Huijsen’s Fitness for El Clasico
The outcome of Huijsen’s recovery will have a major impact on Real Madrid’s defensive approach. If fit, he will likely start alongside Militao, providing the stability and composure required for a high-pressure fixture. If unavailable, Alonso will need to adapt, potentially relying on alternative centre-backs or creative defensive reshuffles.
With Madrid’s backline already stretched and Barcelona closing in on the top of the table, the stakes could not be higher. The Huijsen injury update is now one of the most closely watched storylines in Spanish football, and his return or absence could influence not only the Clasico result but also the balance of LaLiga’s title race.
As the days tick down, Real Madrid are taking every precaution to ensure their players are fit and ready, blending rehabilitation, strategy, and tactical planning. Whether Dean Huijsen can make the trip to Camp Nou remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: his presence will be pivotal to Madrid’s defensive fortunes in one of football’s most iconic clashes.
