While Real Madrid players enjoy their final days of rest after a demanding season that included the Club World Cup, one of the club’s newest additions, Dean Huijsen, has been taking advantage of his free time by picking up one of today’s trendiest sports: padel.

The young defender, recently signed by the Madrid giants, has been active on social media, sharing snapshots of his summer with friends and family. One image, in particular, caught the eye — Huijsen playing padel alongside his close friend Kenan Yildiz, currently at Juventus. The two developed a strong bond during their time together in the Italian club’s youth system.

Huijsen, who made a brief but impactful stop at Bournemouth in the Premier League, was one of the standout young players of the past season. His impressive performances in England helped him secure a move to his dream club: Real Madrid, where he will join a star-studded roster that includes names like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé.

Rumors, reunions, and a future at the top

Huijsen and Yildiz’s friendship goes beyond their Juventus academy days. The two were reunited recently at the Club World Cup, where Real Madrid knocked out Juventus 1-0, courtesy of a goal from Gonzalo García. They caught up after the match and shared a photo together, fueling speculation that Yildiz could one day join his friend in Madrid.

Meanwhile, former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque praised Xabi Alonso in recent statements, suggesting the former midfielder has earned a chance to manage Real Madrid: “He’s proven in every team he’s coached that he deserves this opportunity.”

As for the current squad, Jude Bellingham recently underwent successful surgery on his left shoulder in London. The club has confirmed that his rehabilitation is underway, and while no exact timeline for his return has been provided, medical experts estimate he could be out between two to four months.

For now, Dean Huijsen is enjoying some well-earned rest before the toughest challenge of his career begins: becoming a key figure in Real Madrid’s defense. Until then, a paddle and a racket are his tools to stay sharp ahead of what’s to come.