Dean Huijsen grew up in Amsterdam and spent much of his childhood in southern Spain, which left him with more than one football allegiance. Now 19, the lanky center-back represents Spain at the international level, starring for Bournemouth in the Premier League, and reportedly attracting a potential $56 million bid from Real Madrid. Though still a teenager, his story is already layered with cross-cultural roots, national-team choices, and viral speculation about his so-called “sleepy eyes.”
He was thrown into an odd spotlight when he appeared on a podcast and fielded a direct question about marijuana use. “Basically, for everyone watching, I have sleepy eyes,” he said. “I’m not high. I’m sorry, I’m not high. We’re not allowed to take weed, it’s doping control. It’s how I was born, and I can’t do anything about it.” His response, delivered with a relaxed shrug, quieted rumors but showcased the attention that now follows him wherever he goes.
Rising reputation and Spain’s seal of approval
That attention soared after he made his Spain debut in the Nations League against the Netherlands, the country of his birth. Spain boss Luis de la Fuente praised him soon after, saying, “He is great news for Spanish football, for the national team, to see a player making his debut and playing with that self-confidence, dealing with the pressure with so much spontaneity. He’s had a fantastic integration to the demands and responsibilities we’ve requested from him.”
Standing at six-foot-six, Huijsen offers a commanding presence on the pitch. He’s added to that presence through consistent performances for Bournemouth, where he joined after a spell at Juventus. Despite his short time in England, the defender has impressed teammates and rivals. This surge in form has placed him on the radar of major European clubs, but none more prominently than Real Madrid. Reports indicate a possible $56 million move, although Chelsea and Liverpool have also been linked.
Off the field, Huijsen’s family has made social media waves, too. His father briefly reposted reports about Madrid’s interest, fueling more transfer speculation. For now, Huijsen shrugs off the rumor mill. He has said publicly, “I’m thinking about ending the season well,” and that the rest can wait. Yet, the swirl of news and speculation hasn’t distracted him from the fundamentals—he’s remained grounded, focusing on Bournemouth’s FA Cup run and the fight for Premier League results.
With his dual heritage, unusual gaze, and knack for big-game composure, Dean Huijsen has quickly become a name to watch. And while he insists his eyes are just something he inherited from his mom, there’s no doubt he’s inherited a flair for the grand stage, too. Clubs from across Europe are lining up, but his immediate goal is clear: keep performing for club and country and let the bigger decisions unfold later.
