Did Juventus Make A Mistake Selling Huijsen To Real Madrid? Capello Weighs In

Michael

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Post on Jul 02, 2025

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Did Juventus Make a Mistake Selling Huijsen to Real Madrid? Capello Weighs In

Juventus' decision to let young defender, Kieran Huijsen, join Real Madrid has sparked considerable debate among football fans and pundits alike. Was it a shrewd move to secure immediate funds, or a costly error that could haunt the Bianconeri in the future? Legendary manager Fabio Capello has now offered his expert opinion.

The transfer of the highly-rated 18-year-old Dutch centre-back to the Spanish giants sent shockwaves through the footballing world. While the transfer fee remains undisclosed, reports suggest it was a significant sum for a player with relatively limited senior team experience. This immediately raised questions about the wisdom of Juventus letting such a promising talent leave.

Huijsen's Potential: A Bright Future Uncertain

Huijsen's potential is undeniable. He's been described as possessing exceptional technical ability, composure beyond his years, and a strong physical presence for a player of his age. His performances at youth level, both for Ajax and subsequently Juventus' youth teams, showcased a maturity and tactical awareness rarely seen in players so young. Many saw him as a future star, potentially anchoring Juventus' defense for years to come.

• Technical Prowess: Huijsen's passing accuracy and ability to read the game are frequently cited as his key strengths.
• Physical Attributes: His height and strength make him a formidable opponent in aerial duels.
• Tactical Intelligence: He displays a mature understanding of defensive positioning and game management.

However, the pressure of breaking into the first team at a club like Juventus is immense. The competition for places is fierce, and opportunities for young players are often limited. This could have played a role in Juventus' decision. The hefty transfer fee may have been too tempting to refuse, especially considering Juventus' current financial situation.

Capello's Verdict: A Calculated Risk?

Fabio Capello, a manager renowned for his tactical acumen and no-nonsense approach, has added his perspective to the ongoing debate. While he stopped short of explicitly labelling the sale a mistake, he hinted at the complexities involved. "Juventus needed to make difficult decisions," Capello stated in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. "Sometimes, financial realities dictate choices that may seem harsh in the short term."

He further elaborated, suggesting that the club might have prioritized immediate financial stability over long-term player development. "It's a gamble," Capello conceded. "Huijsen has immense talent, but the transition to the highest level isn't always easy. Real Madrid is a demanding environment. Only time will tell if Juventus made the right call."

The Long-Term Implications for Juventus

The sale of Huijsen highlights the difficult balancing act faced by modern football clubs. The need to manage finances responsibly often clashes with the desire to nurture young talent and build for the future. Juventus' decision will undoubtedly be scrutinized for years to come. If Huijsen flourishes at Real Madrid, it will serve as a stark reminder of a potentially missed opportunity. Conversely, if he struggles to adapt, the decision may be viewed as a more pragmatic one.

Ultimately, the true impact of this transfer will only be felt in the coming years. Will Huijsen become a Real Madrid star? Will Juventus regret their decision? Only time will tell.

What are your thoughts? Did Juventus make a mistake letting Huijsen go? Share your opinion in the comments below!