It’s time to talk about Dean Huijsen. The 19 year old centreback, born in the Netherlands, grew up in Marbella, now showing what Dutch total football with a Spanish touch is all about. Huijsen is balling out at Bournemouth this season after joining from Juventus Next Gen in the summer. Another smart piece of business by Bournemouth, recognizing Juventus’s need to sell promising prospects to raise funds for the here and now. Signed for around a 15M euro fee, Huijsen was seen as a depth option for Bournemouth now, but was never expected to contribute as much as he has. Compared to other CB’s in the top European leagues, Huijsen registers in the 85th percentile or higher for all offensive metrics. Not to forget the primary focus of a central defender, Huijsen has been no slouch in his own end this year. See his comparison to other top league CB’s from FBRef, below:

As you can see, this is a CB who wants to be on the ball. Progressive passes, carrying the ball, getting forward to receive passes behind the first line of press, he’s been doing it all this year. At only 19, one has to wonder if the sky is the limit for Huijsen. Take social media rumours for what you will, but the fact I’ve seen him linked with interest from Real Madrid is at the very least a testament to his play this year.

The young Spanish/Dutchman has shown a love for the biggest stage already. Bagged the game winner over Spurs at home, and 3 games later scored again at Old Trafford leading to another Bournemouth win over a Top 6 opponent. In his last outing vs Everton, Huijsen did his part and then some in a clean sheet performance, registering 9 clearances and 4 ball recoveries, while winning the majority of his duels. At the rate he’s going, I wouldn’t be surprised if a club tries to prize Huijsen away from the south coast of England, with a hefty profit going to Bournemouth, of course.

He’s one to keep an eye on. Dean Huijsen. Remember the name.

-LM