Florentino Perez welcomes Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid – ‘This was your big dream’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid welcomed their first signing of the summer to the club today as Dean Huijsen was officially presented in front of the club members and media.

Signed from AFC Bournemouth by activating his €58 million release clause, the 20-year-old became the first signing of the Xabi Alonso era.

Huijsen arrived at the club facilities today and underwent the customary medical tests before the ceremonial signing of the contract along with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Once that was done, Perez took to stage to welcome the newest addition to the Real Madrid roster.

Florentino’s speech welcoming Huijsen

Kicking things off, the Los Blancos chief welcomed Huijsen’s family to the ceremony and then spoke about the success that club had achieved in recent years.

“Very good morning to all of you. Dear Dean Huijsen, Mascha and Donny, parents, Donny and Damon, Dean Huijsen’s brothers, José Martínez Pirri, honorary president of Real Madrid… Welcome to all of you,” Perez started.

Continuing, he said: “It is a day of great excitement for Real Madrid fans. About to fly to the United States. To a World Cup that Madrid is facing with the aim of making madridistas happy.

“A club that has experienced one of its most successful cycles. 30 titles, including six European Cups in the last 11 years. But this club always works.

“A few days ago we presented Xabi Alonso, the new coach for the new challenges ahead. We have great players and we want to continue building together. With great talents and exceptional players.

“They make us the most successful club in the world. That’s why we are very happy. Because here comes one of those talents who break into the world of football, who gives us hope. Today, we welcome Dean Huijsen.”

Addressing the young defender and how this moment was a dream come true for the 20-year-old, Perez said:

“Dear Dean, welcome. To your new home. Because this was your big dream since you were a child. We’ve seen how excited you were with your family. They know all the sacrifice you had to make to become one of the best centre-backs in the world.”

Perez then spoke about the youngster’s journey starting out in the academy of Malaga before going on to play for Italian giants like Juventus and AS Roma and finally making it to the Premier League with Bournemouth – all of which has now led him to Madrid.

“You have a special talent for developing elegant football. Many big clubs wanted to count on you, but you knew you wanted to come here, to build your own history. You come to Madrid, to the biggest challenge of your career,” said Perez.

“But we are facing one of the great players of recent years. From today, you will live with a new family, Real Madrid.”

Talking about what it means for anyone to represent the Merengues, the president added:

“Madrid players, as well as being great players, are madridistas. This shirt represents all the values, work, sacrifice, respect, humility and solidarity. These values have brought you this far. Thus, Madrid has conquered the hearts of millions of fans.”

Continuing, he added: “We have seen you in the Madrid shirt, as a child. I’m sure you’ve experienced the magical nights in that stadium, a Bernabeu that awaits you.

“It’s a day to enjoy with your people, with those who have supported you throughout your career. It’s up to you to keep fighting to win titles and triumphs with Madrid.”

Finally, Perez spoke about the demands that will be placed on Huijsen as a Real Madrid player, saying:

“Nobody gives up here. That’s what the fans are going to ask of you. That’s how we’ve managed to be the club with 15 European Cups. Achieved by a way of understanding things. Great emotions await you here.

“And your first adventure will be the Club World Cup, which we are very excited about. Together we will share many joys. Welcome to your home. Welcome to Real Madrid.”

Source: Real Madrid TV