Dean Huijsen Explains Why He Chose Jersey No. 24 at Real Madrid Over Iconic No. 4
New Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen has officially been unveiled at the Santiago Bernabéu, and during his presentation, the 20-year-old rising star opened up about a subtle but symbolic decision — his choice to wear the number 24 jersey.
Huijsen, who recently joined Los Blancos from Bournemouth, made it clear that he didn’t come to Madrid for the spotlight — but rather for the opportunity to earn his place in a squad full of stars.
🎙 Why Number 24?
“I am not thinking about the no.4 shirt or any number,” Huijsen said during his unveiling.
“Wearing any number here is an honor. I chose no.24 because it was available. I am delighted to wear any number here.
Real Madrid is the club of my life. Thank you and HALA Madrid!”
The iconic No. 4 shirt is currently worn by David Alaba, and before him, it belonged to none other than Sergio Ramos, one of the greatest defenders in football history. Huijsen’s humility in opting not to chase that legacy straight away speaks volumes about his mentality — he’s here to work, not to flex.
💬 Opinion: Mature Move From a Future Star
Dean Huijsen’s choice reflects maturity beyond his years. In a football world obsessed with instant status and symbolic jersey numbers, this young defender is focused on earning respect through performance, not perception.
It’s refreshing to see a player not rush into wearing a number tied to legendary pressure. Rather than forcing comparisons to Ramos, Huijsen is wisely carving his own path, taking time to grow under the watchful eye of Real’s seasoned defenders.
He’s already shown great promise and has named Ramos as his idol — and who knows, perhaps one day he’ll grow into the No. 4 shirt naturally, just like Ramos did after arriving as a youngster from Sevilla.
🏁 What’s Next?
With competition from Rüdiger, Militão, Alaba, and Jesús Vallejo, Huijsen has his work cut out. But based on his words and character, he’s not here for a cameo — he’s here to write his chapter in Madrid’s legendary history.
Madridistas, take note: the number on his back might be 24, but his potential is pure gold.
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