Denzel Dumfries closes on Real Madrid move: “I’d have preferred Barcelona”
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman admitted he would rather have seen the defender join Barça as the transfer nears completion.
Real Madrid’s presidential election has continued to make headlines far beyond Spain.
The Netherlands national team has become the latest side affected by the ongoing developments, with Denzel Dumfries, who is part of the Dutch squad for the World Cup, among the players expected to arrive at the Santiago Bernabéu if Florentino Pérez remains president.
Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands head coach and former Barcelona manager, did not hold back when asked about Dumfries’ impending move.
“I don’t know if the transfer is completely finalized yet, but if anyone deserves it, it’s him,” Koeman said.
Koeman’s Barcelona connection surfaces
The Dutch coach, however, could not resist referencing his Barcelona past and admitted he would have preferred to see Dumfries end up elsewhere.
“I would have preferred him to go to Barcelona,” Koeman added.
His comments quickly drew attention given the long-standing rivalry between Spain’s two biggest clubs and his own history at Camp Nou.
Reijnders confirms Dumfries’ move to Real Madrid
Tijjani Reijnders, Dumfries’ Netherlands teammate and Manchester City midfielder, also appeared to confirm the transfer while speaking to reporters.
“We’ve all congratulated Denzel. It’s a huge step for him, and we’re very happy for him,” Reijnders said.
“He’s shown what he can do over the last two seasons, so it’s more than justified,” the midfielder added.
Real Madrid waiting for official confirmation
While Florentino Pérez has yet to officially confirm what has become one of soccer’s worst-kept secrets, Dumfries is expected to become a Real Madrid player if Pérez remains in charge of the club.
The Dutch defender would join a list of already confirmed arrivals that also includes Ibrahima Konaté and José Mourinho.
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