Dean Huijsen, a young and promising center-back for Bournemouth, has recently been thrust into the spotlight as he replaces Iñigo Martínez in the Spanish national team for the upcoming Nations League quarter-finals against the Netherlands.
The announcement made by the Real Federación Española de Fútbol on March 17, 2025, comes just ahead of an important two-leg tie scheduled to begin on March 20 in Feyenoord, with the return match set for March 23 at Mestalla. Spain, which is defending its title won in 2023, is looking to advance to the playoff stages of this prestigious tournament.
At just 19 years old, Dean Huijsen has already established himself as a key player for Bournemouth in the Premier League, showcasing his skills in 27 appearances this season and contributing two goals. His consistent performance has reportedly justified the club's €15 million investment, made last summer when Bournemouth acquired him from Juventus.
Born on April 14, 2005, in Amsterdam, Huijsen's football journey began early. After moving to Marbella at just five years old, he joined Costa Unida Club de Fútbol, where his talent quickly garnered attention. He later signed with Málaga, and in 2021, he was secured by Juventus, marking the start of his ascent through professional football.
After debuting for Juventus's first team in November 2023 with a notable match against AC Milan, Huijsen was loaned to Roma, where he gained further experience. His contributions there continued to bolster his reputation before Bournemouth made their move for him, paying a significant fee reflecting his potential and skill.
Despite his promising role within Spain's setup, not everyone views Huijsen's nationality switch favorably. As he prepares to face his former national team, the Netherlands, he has been met with mixed feelings in his country of birth. His shift to represent Spain, where he has already won six caps with the under-21 team, was influenced by strong interest from the Spanish Football Federation.
Huijsen’s father, Donny Huijsen, is also a well-known figure, having played professionally for various clubs in the 90s, including Az Alkmaar, Haarlem, and Ajax. It seems the footballing pedigree runs deep in the family, and Dean has quickly made a name for himself in the competitive landscape of European football.
As the kick-off draws near, all eyes will be on Huijsen to see how he handles the pressure of making his debut for the senior national team. Fans are hopeful that his recent form will translate into impactful play against the Netherlands, a formidable opponent.
With both legs of the quarter-final looming, it will indeed be intriguing to see how Huijsen’s experience and capabilities will blend with the existing squad to secure Spain's progression in the Nations League.
In summary, Dean Huijsen stands at a pivotal point in his burgeoning career. His selection for the Spanish national team marks a significant milestone, setting the stage for what could potentially be a thrilling representation on the international stage. Whether he continues his rise in the Premier League or commands a prominent position in the national squad, his journey thus far has only just begun.
