Getty Images The matches Huijsen could miss after his sending off
Huijsen will serve a suspension against Espanyol and Levante, and will return to LaLiga in the classic against Atlético at the Metropolitano
Dean Huijsen has become an unexpected protagonist after the Real Sociedad-Real Madrid match. The young center-back was sent off in the 32nd minute, and his absence will weigh on the upcoming LaLiga matches.
The Dutch defender will miss, due to suspension, the matches against Espanyol at Santiago Bernabéu and Levante away. This is established by the competition committee after the straight red card shown at Anoeta. His return in the domestic championship is scheduled for the visit to Atlético de Madrid at the Metropolitano.
A controversial action at Anoeta
The incident that cost him the red card came when Mikel Oyarzabal was heading toward Courtois's goal. Huijsen, poorly positioned, tried to stop him with a clear grab. Gil Manzano interpreted it as a clear goal-scoring opportunity and didn't hesitate to show him the card.
The protests were immediate. Xabi Alonso, from the sideline, insisted that Éder Militao was close to the play and could have corrected it. However, the referee didn't review it on the monitor and VAR didn't intervene either.
Real Sociedad gained ground after the sending off and the match changed completely. Madrid, with one man down, held on thanks to Courtois and the talent of Mbappé and Güler.
What the rules say
According to IFAB regulations, a player must be sent off if he prevents a clear goal-scoring opportunity with a foul. For Gil Manzano, that's exactly what happened. However, several analysts believe the decision was too strict.
On Cadena SER, former referee Iturralde González pointed out that the referee had a complicated view of the play and that VAR should have intervened. The debate is open and the suspension is already a fact.
A problem for Xabi Alonso
Huijsen's absence comes at a delicate stage. Madrid faces three matchdays in a few days, and rotation in defense was key.
Without him, Xabi will have to improvise. Militao is a regular starter and the question is whether he'll be accompanied by Raúl Asencio or Tchouaméni. Meanwhile, Alaba could get more minutes after putting his latest injury behind him.
The Dutchman's return will take place in the classic against Atlético de Madrid. A heated match, of maximum demand, where his physicality and ball distribution could be decisive.
Until then, Huijsen will have to watch his teammates from the stands. A controversial suspension that leaves Madrid with fewer resources in defense at a key moment of the season.
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