Guti stood out during the broadcast of Real Madrid - Al Hilal in the Club World Cup. Through his real-time analysis, Guti surprised everyone by pointing to an unexpected footballer as the team's standout player. Guti didn't beat around the bush and brought to the forefront a player whose performance deserved more than just a few compliments.
Guti's analysis of the first half
During the first half of the match, Guti wasn't particularly impressed by Real Madrid's overall performance. He pointed out that the team wasn't showing the desired effectiveness under Xabi Alonso, who's still adapting his style to Madrid. "We've had little time, the team isn't finding the key to what Xabi Alonso wants," Guti commented during the broadcast.
The former footballer highlighted the lack of prominence from key figures like Vinícius and Rodrygo, who didn't manage to shine in the first 45 minutes of the match. Nevertheless, Guti found something positive in the performance of some players, among them a name that surprised many: Dean Huijsen.
Dean Huijsen: The big surprise
Huijsen, the center-back signed for €58 million, was highlighted by Guti as one of the few positive aspects of the first half. "I loved it. He did everything right and knew what the team needed," the commentator stated emphatically.
The young Spanish defender, a Madrid prospect, showed in his first minutes that he can be key in the team's future. Guti highlighted his maturity, ability to read the game, and how, despite being new, he was already showing the quality that brought him to Madrid.
Güler changes the dynamic
At halftime, Xabi Alonso brought on Arda Güler for Raúl Asencio, and Tchouaméni moved to the center of the defense. From the moment he came on, the match took a notable turn. Guti, who's not known for giving praise lightly, didn't hesitate to point out the difference the Turk made in the team's performance: "The team with Güler is different," he said.
The Turk has been one of the most desired pieces at Real Madrid. His entrance in the second half only reaffirmed the expectations Xabi Alonso has for him. Under Ancelotti, Güler didn't have relevance, but under Xabi Alonso, he seems to be a key player, ready to fight for a starting spot.
The importance of the new signings
Although Vinícius and Bellingham receive attention, Guti highlights Huijsen for his solidity and ability to deliver what the team needs. The former Madrid player highlighted the center-back as one of the successes of the season, emphasizing his contribution.
With Güler standing out and Huijsen establishing himself, Real Madrid is beginning to see the desired change under Xabi Alonso. The season has just begun, but there are already signs that the future is in good hands.