In a bold and potentially game-changing move, future Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso is reportedly preparing to establish a new central defensive partnership that could redefine the club’s backline for years to come. According to Diario AS, Alonso sees Dean Huijsen and Éder Militão as the ideal duo to anchor the heart of Real Madrid’s defence next season.
Dean Huijsen, the 19-year-old Dutch-born defender who currently plays for Juventus but has been heavily linked with a summer move to Madrid, has caught Alonso’s eye with his extraordinary composure on the ball, technical brilliance, and physical presence. The Spanish tactician views Huijsen as a long-term asset capable of leading from the back while also initiating attacks — a profile that perfectly fits Alonso’s tactical vision.
Meanwhile, Éder Militão, who is nearing a full recovery from his long-term ACL injury, remains one of the most trusted and experienced centre-backs in the Real Madrid squad. Before his injury, Militão was widely regarded as one of the best defenders in Europe, known for his speed, aerial strength, and last-ditch tackles. Alonso believes Militão’s leadership and experience will be essential in helping Huijsen adapt quickly to the demands of La Liga and the Champions League.
The proposed pairing symbolizes a blend of youth and experience — Huijsen bringing the youthful hunger and technical skill, and Militão offering stability and elite-level experience. Sources close to Diario AS report that Alonso has already communicated his preference to the club’s sporting directors, signaling his intent to reshape the team’s spine from the first day of his tenure.
This decision could have major implications for veterans like David Alaba and Nacho Fernández. Alaba, though admired for his versatility, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, while Nacho, whose contract situation is still unresolved, may be considering his options. Alonso’s clear trust in Huijsen and Militão may push the veterans further down the pecking order or even out of the squad entirely.
Real Madrid have long been known for planning ahead, and Huijsen’s potential signing aligns with their recent strategy of acquiring the brightest young talents in world football. The club’s hierarchy sees the Juventus defender as a natural successor in the vein of Sergio Ramos and Raphaël Varane — players who defined an era at the Santiago Bernabéu.
What makes this move even more intriguing is Alonso’s personal touch in squad planning. Despite not yet being officially unveiled as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor, Alonso has been actively involved behind the scenes, making recommendations, analyzing the squad, and outlining the type of football he wants his team to play. His desire for a modern, possession-based style means ball-playing centre-backs like Huijsen are critical to his system.
Moreover, Militão’s versatility — being capable of playing in a high line and dealing with one-on-one situations — makes him the perfect complement to Huijsen. Alonso reportedly believes that giving Huijsen the freedom to develop alongside such a solid and reliable partner will speed up his tactical growth and ease the pressure that comes with wearing the white jersey.
This isn’t just a short-term fix but a long-term project. Sources say Alonso envisions the Huijsen-Militão duo forming the bedrock of a new Real Madrid dynasty — one that combines the club’s rich tradition of defensive resilience with a modern, progressive footballing philosophy.
While the final decision will depend on transfer negotiations and medical clearances, there’s a growing confidence within the Real Madrid camp that Alonso’s plan is already in motion. If everything falls into place, Los Blancos fans could witness the birth of a new defensive wall — one that stands tall and proud under the stewardship of a manager who knows exactly what it takes to dominate Europe.