Dean Huijsen latest injury update: Will he play for Real Madrid vs. Benfica?
Huijsen missed the weekend loss to Osasuna, joining four other key players on the sidelines.
The uncertainty is over: Dean Huijsen will not play for Real Madrid against Benfica in the Champions League on Wednesday.
What injury does Huijsen have? When will he be back?
The risk is too high, and Madrid is unwilling to cross that red line. The defender has made excellent progress recovering from a right calf overload, but it’s not enough to justify a return this week. He is expected back for the next match against Getafe, but he will miss this Champions League showdown.
Huijsen joins four other absences: Éder Militão, Jude Bellingham, Dani Ceballos, and Rodrygo. Rodrygo has returned to training and could face Getafe next Monday, but he is suspended for tomorrow’s match and will watch from the stands, just like Huijsen.
Huijsen takes cautious approach after ongoing issues
Today marks the fifth day of Huijsen’s absence, though his struggles have been building for weeks. The defender has been playing through minor discomfort - not serious, but persistent - while accumulating training sessions and games. The break came after Friday’s session, following the trip to Lisbon ahead of Osasuna. All parties agreed that a short pause was necessary.
Medical evaluation confirmed a right calf overload, with an estimated recovery of five to seven days. His progress has been positive, and optimism was high at Valdebebas about his potential inclusion. However, the decision today prioritizes caution. Zero risks. He will complete the recovery process and return against Getafe.
Real Madrid injury report vs Benfica
Including Huijsen, Real Madrid faces five absences.
- Éder Militão: Left hamstring tear involving the proximal tendon, expected back in April.
- Jude Bellingham: Left semitendinosus muscle tear, expected mid-March.
- Dani Ceballos: Right calf tear, likely returning around Easter.
- Rodrygo: Back in training after right hamstring tendinosis but suspended for tomorrow.
To fill the squad, coach Arbeloa has called up La Fábrica prospects Manuel Ángel and Thiago Pitarch.
Possible Madrid lineup against Benfica
The starting lineup is nearly settled. Thibaut Courtois will start in goal, with Trent Alexander-Arnold at right back and Álvaro Carreras at left back. The central pairing has been the main question, and the decision is Raúl Asencio-Antonio Rüdiger, with the veteran Rüdiger returning after resting in Pamplona.
In midfield, the four available players - Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler - will start. Up front, Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé will lead the attack despite minor issues in their left knees. Huijsen will sit out, confirming his absence for the Benfica clash.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.