What did Dean Huijsen make out of his Real Madrid debut?

Dean Huijsen has opened up about his debut for Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup. The Spanish giants spent £50 million to secure the services of the center-back during the summer transfer window, triggering the release clause of the Cherries’ defender. Speaking about his first 90 minutes for the Spanish outfit, he described it as a well-balanced debut. In a post-match media interaction, Dean Huijsen stated that although his debut went well, the result could have been better. He also emphasized that it is a work in progress. Huijsen said:

I think I did well in my debut. I think we were better than expected to get a better result. It wasn’t to be, and we have to keep working

At half-time, the game was poised at 1-1. Gonzalo García gave Los Blancos an early lead at the half-hour mark, while Ruben Neves converted a penalty to level the score just before the break. Speaking about the tactical discussions during the interval, Huijsen mentioned that the gaffer urged the team to keep working while maintaining possession, paving the way for more chances. He said:

Xabi told us to keep working and to keep possession. That way, the chances would come

While Real Madrid enjoyed the major share of possession in the game, Al Hilal played toe to toe to secure the point at Hard Rock Stadium. 

What did Xabi Alonso say about the debuts and the game? 

Speaking about the debuts of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, Xabi Alonso congratulated both players on their big day. He mentioned that he is thrilled to have them in the dressing room, noting that they have brought great quality to the team. He said:

First I'd like to congratulate them, because this is a big day for them. Making a Real Madrid debut will surely have an impact on them. I'm thrilled because they have that personality and they'll be important players for us. Having them here will give us added quality.

On the other hand, speaking about the climate in which the players competed, Xabi Alonso mentioned that the conditions and temperature were far from ideal. He emphasized that it was not the best time to play football and pointed out that the decision to proceed was not made with sporting considerations in mind.