Real Madrid faces a wave of injuries ahead of the El Clasico

The personnel crisis at Real Madrid shows no sign of easing as center-back Dean Huijsen risks missing the El Clasico against Barca due to injury.

The injury crisis in Real Madrid's defense is worsening as young center-back Dean Huijsen is unlikely to recover in time for the El Clasico against Barcelona on October 26 at Santiago Bernabeu. This match is seen as a pivotal moment in the La Liga title race this season, and Real’s continued defensive absences present a tough challenge for coach Xabi Alonso.

According to the Diario ASHuijsen suffered a minor tear in his left Achilles muscle during the match against Villarreal in early October. Despite playing the full 90 minutes, the 20-year-old defender had to withdraw from the Spain national team camp due to prolonged muscle fatigue. He is currently focused on recovery at the Valdebebas training center under close supervision by Real Madrid’s medical staff.

Initially, Huijsen was expected to be sidelined for about 12–15 days, but his recovery is progressing slower than anticipated. This leaves his participation in the El Clasico uncertain. Coach Xabi Alonso is reportedly unwilling to risk playing the Spanish player unless he is fully fit, especially as Real is already suffering significant losses in defense.

Previously, Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all sustained muscle injuries, while Ferland Mendy has just returned to training after a long absence. The shortage of players has forced Alonso to experiment with temporary solutions, including deploying Aurelien Tchouameni as a center-back in recent matches.

Huijsen, regarded by Real Madrid as a promising talent to succeed Rudiger, has impressed with his game reading and ball-playing skills since the beginning of the season. Therefore, his absence in the El Clasico would be a significant loss as Real needs to maintain defensive solidity against Barcelona’s potent attack featuring Lewandowski, Yamal, and Marcus Rashford.

Currently, the young player is diligently working on recovery in the gym, combining physical therapy and light fitness training to prevent relapse. Real Madrid is expected to make a final decision next week on whether to register Huijsen for the match against Barca after a last assessment of his condition.

Ahead of the El Clasico, Los Blancos have two key fixtures: an away game at Getafe in La Liga this weekend, followed by hosting Juventus at Bernabeu in the third round of the Champions League. If Huijsen cannot return in time, coach Xabi Alonso will have to continue managing a patched-up defense at a time when the Royal Club urgently needs stability to maintain their top spot.