Dean Huijsen – A 20-Year-Old Learning on the Job
Dean Huijsen’s performance at the Club World Cup launched his reputation into a different tier. Naturally, the shine has started to fade as the 20-year-old adjusts to life at Madrid.
Against elite opposition, his vulnerabilities have been exposed. Be it his recovery speed in transition, lack of strength and timing in aerial duels, or a drop in his usual composure in possession. At 20, this is expected. This is the beginning of Huijsen’s Real Madrid career.
Like with Arda and Mastantuono, Xabi Alonso is choosing to invest in the development curve rather than chase immediate perfection. The growing pains will continue like it did for young Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Vinicius, and many others before him.
Courtois Loves a Game Against Liverpool
Just as he did in the Champions League final against Liverpool, Thibaut Courtois produced a remarkable performance here. Eight total saves, four of them inside his own box. Courtois prevented this from turning into a 3–0 or 4–0 defeat.
The Belgian consistently elevates his game against Premier League opposition, and especially against Liverpool.
Jury Still Out Against Elite Opposition
Yes, Xabi’s project is still a work in progress. The yard stick will come out in the spring. But the sample size with this specific group of players is large enough to justify continued concern.
Against Europe’s elite, and particularly away from home in hostile environments, the team struggled to release pressure or play their way into the match. There was no outlet to allow the side to breathe.
Until Madrid starts consistently performing against top-tier opponents, the question marks will remain.
Had this match finished 3–0 or 4–0, which it easily could have, the Clasico win may look more pf an outlier against an injured, fatigued Barcelona.
This group needs to consistently play with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove.
