[Real Madrid](https://www.managingmadrid.com) center-back Dean Huijsen has been officially nominated for the prestigious PFA Young Player of the Year award, following a stellar loan spell at Bournemouth during the 2024/25 Premier League season.
Huijsen quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the club’s backline. The 20-year-old’s composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and tactical intelligence helped transform Bournemouth’s defense into one of the most disciplined units in the league. Remarkably, the Cherries finished the campaign with the fewest goals conceded in a single Premier League season in the club’s history — a feat in which Huijsen played a central role.
The shortlist for the PFA Young Player of the Year includes some of England’s brightest talents. Joining Huijsen are now-Chelsea striker Liam Delap, Arsenal duo Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, and [Aston Villa](https://7500toholte.sbnation.com)’s dynamic midfielder Morgan Rogers. The nominees were selected by members of the Professional Footballers’ Association, highlighting the respect Huijsen has earned among his peers.
Further testament to Huijsen’s impact was the recognition he received within the Bournemouth dressing room — the Dutch international was voted the club’s Players’ Player of the Year at the conclusion of the season.
The winner of the award will be revealed during a ceremony in Manchester on August 19.