According to a report by Madrid Universal on Friday, August 28, 2026, Jose Mourinho appears to have quickly identified Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konate as his preferred centre-back partnership, with both defenders starting Real Madrid’s opening two matches of the season. However, Huijsen already appears to have emerged as Mourinho’s primary choice at the heart of the defence.

Konate also seems to have a strong position in the team, although Antonio Rudiger remains available and is expected to compete for his place. Huijsen, however, has made the strongest impression following a challenging first campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Spanish defender is aware that his debut season with Real Madrid did not meet expectations. Missing out on Spain’s World Cup-winning squad was another disappointment, but Huijsen has chosen not to allow those setbacks to affect his confidence.

Instead, he returned to pre-season determined to prove his value and has already appeared to take his game to another level. His physical development, professionalism and dedication during Mourinho’s training sessions have reportedly impressed those around Valdebebas.

The progress has encouraged Mourinho to place his trust in Huijsen from the beginning of the campaign. His increased physical strength and improved concentration have made him look more reliable, while his mentality has also helped him become an increasingly important part of the defensive unit.

His display against Real Sociedad offered further evidence of his development. Huijsen completed 69 passes, the most of any Real Madrid player, while also making four recoveries, ranking third within the team.

He also provided an unexpected attacking threat, finishing among Real Madrid’s leading players for attempts on goal. His ability to contribute during set pieces has given Mourinho another potential weapon in attack, demonstrating that his influence is not limited to defensive responsibilities.

Mourinho has also encouraged Huijsen to play a more prominent role when Real Madrid are in possession. Against Sociedad, the defender recorded 92 touches, surpassing Bernardo Silva’s 88 and Federico Valverde’s 69.

The statistics underline Huijsen’s growing importance to Mourinho’s system, with the young centre-back increasingly involved in controlling possession and helping Real Madrid construct attacks from the back.