Sergio Ramos is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of the 21st century, having built a legendary career with the Spanish national team and Real Madrid. Now playing for Monterrey in Liga MX, the veteran center-back sent a heartfelt eight-word message to Real Madrid’s $66M signing who has publicly called Ramos his idol.
One of the key concerns for Real Madrid during the 2024-25 season has been the constant injury setbacks in their defensive line, particularly at center-back. With Xabi Alonso’s arrival as head coach expected soon, the club is already building a squad designed to support the young manager’s vision for the future.
On Saturday, Real Madrid officially announced the signing of Dean Huijsen, who has agreed to a five-year contract through June 2030. The Spanish international joins from AFC Bournemouth after a breakout season in the Premier League.
To secure his transfer, Real Madrid triggered the £50 million ($66 million USD) release clause in Huijsen’s contract, agreeing to pay it in three installments. The promising center-back—recently nominated for the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season award—is expected to play a major role in the club’s long-term plans.
Huijsen receives a message from his idol, Sergio Ramos
At 39, Sergio Ramos remains a role model for many of the game’s rising stars, and Dean Huijsen is no exception. The young defender has repeatedly expressed his admiration for Ramos, even citing him as the reason the No. 4 is his favorite number for a jersey.
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After Real Madrid made the signing official, Ramos wasted no time acknowledging the tribute. He took to Instagram to post a short but powerful message to Huijsen: “All the best, brother. Go for it all.”
As one era begins to fade and another rises, soccer continues to tell stories of idols and successors. With Huijsen set to join Real Madrid on June 1, both players could potentially meet on the field during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup—if Monterrey and Madrid advance to the knockout stage in a showdown between two different generations.
