Dean Huijsen reveals message from 'biggest idol' Sergio Ramos after Real Madrid transfer and explains why he picked 24 as his shirt number

Real Madrid’s newest defensive addition, Huijsen has revealed that he received a message from the former Los Blancos captain, who is his idol, and underscored that he chose ‘24’ as his shirt number since that was one of the only available.

Huijsen saw Ramos for the first time back in the 2014 UEFA Champions League final, where he scored a late goal to help his side win the competition against rivals Atletico, and went on to chose the Spaniard as a player to look up to. Ramos, who is looked upon as the best centre-back in history by Huijsen, sent him a message the very day his signing became official.

The 20-year-old said at his unveiling on Tuesday, "He [Ramos] sent me a message the day it became official. He is my greatest idol, the best centre-back in history. I wouldn't be left with just one thing."

Regarding choosing number 24, he stated, "The 24th is the one that was available. The offers, Madrid is the best club in the world and there is no other like it."

Huijsen will represent Real in the Club World Cup this month, before commencing the 2025-26 season.