For the first time, Spain has called up Bournemouth center-back Dean Huijsen for their forthcoming Nations League quarterfinal matchup with the Netherlands.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Inigo Martinez suffered a knee injury
During Barcelona’s 4-2 victory over Atletico Madrid on Sunday, Inigo Martinez suffered a knee injury. Huijsen, who has been a standout for Andoni Iraola’s club this season, has been called up for representing Spain.
First call-up as part of Spain national team today for Bournemouth CB Dean Huijsen.
Excellent season in Premier League, top clubs keen on signing him in the summer and now first of many calls with Spain. pic.twitter.com/NhnflkDxBo
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 17, 2025
Last summer, he joined Bournemouth under Iraola’s reign from Juventus. For under €15 million, the Italian team let him go, which was a great deal given his potential, current performance, and chances for the future. In retrospect, Juventus might wish they had kept him or negotiated a higher price.
The 19-year-old made six appearances for Spain’s Under-21 team in March 2024 after playing for the Netherlands at the junior level.
Bournemouth has a genuine chance to qualify for Europe
Due to Huijsen’s performances, the Cherries are currently in 10th place in the Premier League, and Bournemouth has a genuine chance to qualify for Europe this season.
“Inigo Martinez has been ruled out of the Spanish national team squad due to a right knee problem,” the Royal Spanish Football Federation said in a statement.
“In his place, (Spain manager) Luis de la Fuente has called up Dean Huijsen of Bournemouth.”
Marc Casado, a Barcelona’s midfielder, will also be absent for Spain. He had a knee ligament injury against Atletico and may be out for at least two months.
Casado has been replaced in the team by Aleix Garcia of Bayer Leverkusen.
Spain, the winners of the Euros last year, will host the Netherlands at the Mestalla Stadium on March 23 after traveling to Rotterdam on Thursday for the opening leg of the Nations League quarterfinals.
Dean Huijsen’s stats for the 2024-2025 Premier League season with AFC Bournemouth
Matches Played: 15
Minutes Played: 969
Goals: 2
Tackles: 22 (per 90: 1.6)
Tackle Success Rate: Approximately 55% (based on ground duels won)
Interceptions: 26 (per 90: 1.8)
Clearances: 86 (per 90: 6.1)
Blocks: 11
Aerial Duels Won: 59% (exact number varies by match, e.g., 9/13 in debut, 5/7 vs. Brighton)
Ground Duels Won: 55% (e.g., 4/7 vs. Tottenham, 3/3 vs. Newcastle)
Ball Recoveries: Estimated 9 per 90 (based on specific match data)
Key Highlights:
Huijsen has scored 2 goals, both headers from set pieces, showcasing his aerial threat despite being a defender.
His passing stats (84.2% accuracy, 59 passes per 90) reflect his role in Bournemouth’s build-up play under Andoni Iraola.
Defensively, he averages 6.1 clearances and 1.8 interceptions per 90, demonstrating his solidity at just 19 years old.
His duel success rates (59% aerial, 55% ground) highlight his physical presence and competitiveness.
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