As Real Madrid gear up for their Round of 16 showdown against Juventus in the FIFA Club World Cup, two of the club’s rising stars, Víctor Munoz and Dean Huijsen, spoke to the club’s official media.
The duo talked about Real Madrid’s chances against the Bianconeri, who are looking to make a statement under new coach Igor Tudor.
They also touched upon the environment in the Real Madrid dressing room under Xabi Alonso and the pressure the team is facing to win the FIFA Club World Cup.
Dean Huijsen on Toni Kroos comparisons, Mbappe fitness
New signing Huijsen was optimistic ahead of the knockout game, stating, “We’re ready and hopefully we can win.
“The plan is to arrive in good physical condition, and we’re confident that moment will come. We’re playing for the pride of winning. That’s the plan.”
Huijsen has been an ever-present figure in Real Madrid backline in this competition so far and has dealt with pressure quite well.
Talking about the pressure to lift the trophy, the former Bournemouth prodigy said, “We are Real Madrid, and we always have to win. The plan is to lift the trophy.
Reflecting on his development under Xabi Alonso so far, Huijsen said, “I’m happy. There’s always room for improvement, and hopefully tomorrow we’ll see that improvement.”
“I have to play, that’s it. I’m going to do whatever they give me. I like playing football,” he added.
As for Federico Valverde comparing him to Toni Kroos due to his vision, the defender added, “Fede is a great player and a great teammate. Thanks for the compliment.”
Dean Huijsen has made a positive impact since joining Real Madrid in the summer. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
The youngster also heaped praise on veterans like Dani Carvajal, adding, “It’s also a pleasure to have players like Carvajal in the squad, who are crucial. He’ll help us become stronger.”
He also gave a glimpse into life inside the locker room: “It’s just banter between us. It’s a locker room, and they’re really good people. They crack me up. I’ll crack a joke back.”
Real Madrid are heading into this game with the big boost of Kylian Mbappe coming back from a major illness.
Talking about Mbappe’s potential return, Huijsen said, “You’ll see tomorrow, but I think he’s fine.”
The Juventus game will be an important one for Huijsen as the youngster had played for the Juventus youth team for a significant period.
The youngster admitted he had learnt a lot at Juve, stating, “They’re very skilled at defense and they work hard. I learned a lot and I’m very grateful.”
Victor Munoz on Xabi Alonso and more
Apart from Gonzalo Garcia, Victor Munoz has also made an impression for Real Madrid in FIFA Club World Cup, notably featuring in two matches.
Although the young winger has featured in just 13 minutes of action, he has left a great impression.
On being part of the Real Madrid team, the youngster said, “I think the team is doing very well. It’s been an unforgettable experience for me to share the locker room with the best players.
Victor Munoz has played 13 minutes at the CWC. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“It’s an honour, and I’m learning a lot. All the youth players are living this experience together, this dream, and we’re trying to make the most of it until the last second.”
He appreciated the support from senior players: “I try to learn as much as possible from the veterans, and they all help us. They tell us to stay calm, to be ourselves, and not to be afraid of failure.”
Munioz also praised manager Xabi Alonso: “He instills a lot of confidence in all of us. He’s very approachable and tells us all to push.”
Alonso has indeed played a key role in promoting young players and giving them the opportunity to make an impression at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Talking about his fellow academy product, Gonzalo Garcia, the player said, “We’re getting used to it. It’s difficult because it’s very hot. You have to try to do your best with whatever you have.”
Garcia has indeed been one of the standout players for Real Madrid in this competition, notably being involved in three goals in three matches.
This has even led to question marks over his future at the club, although Garcia looks set to continue at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.
Finally, Munoz touched on the pressure that comes with playing for Real Madrid: “That’s the nature of football. Sometimes the ball goes in, and sometimes it doesn’t ,” he said.
“It helps us gain experience, improve, and move forward. Everyone on the team, my family, and the club supported me and treated me well,” he concluded.