Rising Stars Under Pressure: Huijsen Defends Yamal and Vinicius Jr.

Barcelona’s 2-1 loss to Madrid in October placed young talent Lamine Yamal at the center of controversy, particularly following his altercation with Dani Carvajal and the ensuing media discussions.

The 18-year-old faced significant criticism regarding his behavior, while his personal life also attracted attention, particularly concerning a controversial birthday party and speculation about his recent breakup with singer Nicki Nicole.

In a parallel narrative, Vinicius Jr. exhibited visible frustration after being substituted by coach Xabi Alonso during El Clasico, raising questions about his future at Real Madrid amidst reported tensions with the new manager. Defender Huijsen defended both players amidst the media buzz, asserting that the scrutiny they face often crosses the line.

In an interview with Radio MARCA, Huijsen remarked, “Lamine is just an ordinary kid at 18. Sometimes, the situation is exaggerated. The same applies to Vinícius; he is a remarkable player and a good person, yet even the smallest actions invite undue criticism.” He further urged the media, stating, “If our performance warrants critique, then it should be given, but often it is excessive.”

Huijsen addressed the pressure that comes with being a player at Madrid, remarking, “Real Madrid is the world’s largest club, so it is expected that there is substantial discussion. I choose not to read the press. I focus on my daily routine—training and home life. I am not dating anyone and only share football-related content on social media; I find playing PlayStation to be the best way to unwind.”

Huijsen’s ascent in 2025 has been remarkable. Having joined Los Blancos in the summer after a stellar season with Bournemouth in the Premier League, he quickly became a pivotal player under coach Alonso, starting all 13 matches available to him across La Liga and the Champions League. He has also emerged as a regular in the national team under coach Luis de la Fuente.

As Madrid leads La Liga with a reinvigorated squad under Alonso, Huijsen has swiftly adapted to the expectations and pressure inherent to playing at Valdebebas. He acknowledged the significance of performance at Madrid: “If you have an off game, it can create panic, but it’s essential to remain composed; the season is long.”

This pressure is particularly heightened for figures like Vinicius Jr., whose every move is scrutinized. Yamal is now navigating a similar landscape at Barcelona, emerging as a generational talent for both the club and the national team at just 18. Both players are crucial to their respective teams’ attacking strategies, and Huijsen’s comments suggest that even among teammates, there is recognition of the media’s tendency to sensationalize narratives.

As La Roja prepares for World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey this week, Yamal will not be in the squad, having withdrawn to undergo invasive radiofrequency therapy for ongoing pubalgia issues. Huijsen expressed understanding for Yamal’s situation: “He has been experiencing discomfort, and it is reasonable for him to take time off; I have been in that situation as well.”

While Yamal is expected to make a full recovery, his absence places greater reliance on Spain’s emerging talents, including Huijsen, as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup.