Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid
Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
Spain continued their solid form post the World Cup, securing a 4-1 win over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League.
The biggest highlight of the game, apart from Lamine Yamal’s brace, was the defensive combination of two young centre-backs, Dean Huijsen and Pau Cubarsi.
With Aymeric Laporte not getting any younger, many see Huijsen as the long-term partner for Cubarsi at the heart of the Spanish backline and it appears the player himself agrees.
Huijsen on Cubarsi partnership
Dean Huijsen, Real Madrid player
Huijsen remains a key asset for the Spain national team. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Speaking to the media after the game, Huijsen has opened up about his relationship with Cubarsi.
“It’s good. I think you can see the level he has,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo) when asked about his defensive partnership with the Barcelona defender.
The Real Madrid star added that the two have an excellent relationship and he would want them to play together in the years to come.
“We get along really well, and I hope it continues like this. Besides being a great player, he’s also a great guy. I hope we can share the dressing room for a long time,” he added.
This is a good sign for Spain, as two of their brightest young defensive talents are more than happy playing with each other, despite plying their trade for two of football’s biggest rivals.
Space for Huijsen for improve
Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid
Huijsen is looking to improve further defensively. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
While Cubarsi has already established himself as one of the best young defenders in world football, Huijsen still has some improvements to make.
It has been reported recently that the Real Madrid star is working on his physical game, which remains a key weakness in the overall package he offers.
If Huijsen can become more competent in physical and one-on-one duels, he could emerge as the ideal defensive partner for Cubarsi, given that he is a left-footed centre-back who is excellent on the ball.
Huijsen has already stepped up his game considerably this season and it will be interesting to how he progresses during the course of the campaign.
Three options for Jose Mourinho in case Kylian Mbappe doesn’t start vs Villarreal
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid superstar
Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images
Real Madrid were given a massive boost earlier this week as Kylian Mbappe’s knock against Turkiye did not appear to be as serious as many had expected.
That being said, the club must still take precaution with the Frenchman, who has once again been a key differentiator in the final third for Los Blancos.
Although Mbappe should be ready for the Villarreal game, Mourinho could consider benching him and, to that end, the Real Madrid manager certainly has a few alternatives.
Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid player
Bellingham looks like Real Madrid’s best goalscoring bet right now. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The first option would see Jude Bellingham deployed as a striker, with Arda Guler dropping into the playmaker role behind him.
This setup would allow Real Madrid to retain their creative spark through Guler, while Bellingham’s late runs into the box could offer a genuine goal threat.
Vinicius Jr would remain on the left, with Yan Diomande the first-choice option on the right, and Brahim Diaz available in reserve.
Carlos Espi as the spearhead
Alternatively, Mourinho could turn to Carlos Espi as a direct replacement through the middle.
The summer signing has impressed whenever called upon, and Mourinho views him as particularly useful inside the box and on crosses thanks to his height and aerial strength.
Against a Villarreal side that may sit deep at times, Espi’s presence in the area could prove valuable in breaking them down.
Having already scored crucial goals off the bench this season, the young Spaniard has shown he can be relied upon when needed.
Endrick, Real Madrid and Brazil forward
Can Endrick earn himself a rare start vs Villarreal? (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)
Finally, Endrick remains an option despite his very limited game time so far this season.
Mourinho was impressed with the Brazilian during pre-season and even blocked his exit on loan, a clear sign of the faith he holds in him.
A start against Villarreal would offer Endrick a rare chance to stake his claim and prove he can be a useful contributor.
Whichever route Mourinho chooses, Real Madrid have enough attacking quality to cope should Mbappe be rested.