Fabio Capello has hit out at Juventus for not spotting the potential of Dean Huijsen.
Huijsen made just one appearance for Juve before joining Bournemouth in 2024 for a fee in the region of £12million.
Twelve months later, and after a string of brilliant performances in the Premier League, the Spain international joined Real Madrid for £50m.
Huijsen has made an impressive start at Madrid and will be in the XI when they take on Juve at the Club World Cup later today in a clash between two clubs Capello managed in his long career.
🤩 @DHuijsen
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Huijsen has clear potential – Capello
The Italian is baffled that the centre-half managed to slip through Juve’s fingers after three years in the Turin club’s set-up.
“I am surprised that Juventus didn’t see the clear potential of the boy,” Capello told Gazzetta.
“Huijsen didn’t just suddenly become good. If he’s playing for Real Madrid at 20, he’s surely good enough for Juventus.”
Madrid go into the game as favourites and Capello believes their greater individual quality could be evident, adding: “Vinicius Jr, [Kylian] Mbappé and [Jude] Bellingham are potential Ballon d’Or winners.
“Many said Carlo Ancelotti solely relied on individual talent, but he was brilliant at enhancing the players’ characteristics. Let’s see what Xabi Alonso does now. He surely doesn’t lack the personality to assert himself in Madrid.”
Capello a big fan of Yildiz
If there is reason for optimism for Juventus, it comes in the form of young forward Kenan Yildiz.
The Turkey international has been the Bianconeri’s best player in the tournament and Capello believes he could pose problems for Huijsen and the rest of the Madrid back four.
“Yildiz has talent and the humility of a champion. He’s a Real Madrid-level player,” he said.
“Juventus are right to hold on to him tightly. This could be his game.”
