Ancelotti counters critical questions following the arrival of 'good player' Huijsen

The multi-million euro transfer of Dean Huijsen, the Amsterdam-born Spanish international, was finalized on Saturday, just minutes before Carlo Ancelotti appeared before the press.

The timing of the announcement immediately sparked a wave of questions from journalists about Real Madrid’s transfer approach a strategy that, over the past two seasons, has come under scrutiny. Despite experiencing significant injury crises, particularly in the defensive line, the club had chosen not to invest in reinforcements during that time. Players like David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Éder Militão all suffered serious knee injuries, sidelining them for long periods, yet Real Madrid opted to rely on internal solutions, reshuffling players and trusting the squad's depth rather than going to the market.

Ancelotti, however, was quick to defend the club’s approach. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s away match against Sevilla at 19:00, he calmly addressed the critics. “All the decisions the club has made have been discussed and agreed upon,” said the Italian coach, maintaining his trademark composure. “There’s nothing more to add. Last year, we had the same problems and managed to solve them. This year has been a bit more difficult.” His words, though diplomatic, hinted at the delicate balance between managing injuries and maintaining squad cohesion without disrupting the structure mid-season.

As Ancelotti prepares to conclude what is expected to be his final season in charge of Real Madrid and likely without lifting a trophy the club has finally chosen to act. By securing Huijsen, not only have they addressed a clear need in the squad, but they have also made a statement: Real Madrid is planning ahead, investing in youth with long-term potential. Huijsen, who has developed rapidly in recent seasons and impressed during his short stint in the Premier League, becomes the most expensive defender ever signed by the club. The decision to bring him in now, with the FIFA Club World Cup looming, indicates that he may play an important role from the start of next season.

Ancelotti didn’t shy away from praising the young defender. “Huijsen is a good, young player with a lot of potential. He’s a good signing,” he said. “I’m enthusiastic about all the players Madrid brings in, because the club always wants to compete at the highest level.” His confidence in the club’s transfer policy suggests that the arrival of Huijsen was not an isolated decision, but rather part of a broader strategic vision shared with club president Florentino Pérez and the board.

The questions from the media, however, didn’t stop there. With Huijsen's signing arriving so late in the season and at a time when Real Madrid is dealing with a depleted defense many wondered whether reinforcements should have been brought in sooner. Ancelotti responded candidly. “Last year it wasn’t even possible, because we had just gotten Alaba back, and Militão and Carvajal were doing well,” he explained. “But the injuries this season have hurt us. They’ve made things much harder.”

Despite the setbacks, Ancelotti showed no signs of frustration toward the club’s leadership. In fact, he made a point to emphasize the support he has received throughout his time in Madrid. “Since I’ve been here, they’ve brought in Camavinga, Rüdiger, Tchouaméni, Bellingham, and Mbappé,” he said. “Of course, we could have done better this season, but I’m not going to criticize the players who have given me so much. For me, they are the best in the world.”

His words reflect the deep respect and admiration he holds for his squad a group that has, despite the challenges, delivered high-level performances in domestic and European competitions over the past few years. Ancelotti's comments also serve as a subtle reminder that building a successful team goes beyond simply buying players it involves trust, continuity, and long-term planning.

With the match against Sevilla on the horizon and the Club World Cup approaching, Real Madrid is entering a new chapter. Huijsen’s signing may not salvage the current season, but it clearly signals the beginning of a new cycle one that could be overseen by a new manager, with fresh ideas and a rejuvenated squad. For now, though, Ancelotti remains focused on finishing strong, guiding his team through the final fixtures, and ensuring that his final months at the Bernabéu reflect the professionalism and dignity he has shown throughout his storied career.