Mourinho's push for Konate leaves Huijsen and Asencio on the sidelines

Real Madrid defender Jose Mourinho is determined to turn things around after a difficult season, pushing hard for the signing of Ibrahima Konate for his first season back at the club and signalling a lack of trust in the existing defensive core.

Reports suggest Mourinho is also targeting another centre‑back this summer, but he rates only Eder Militao highly among the current defenders. Militao remains the sole incumbent defender Mourinho trusts.

Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio are the players most affected by Mourinho’s stance, with both seemingly outside his core plans. While the manager is urging Asencio’s departure, Huijsen still retains a chance to prove his worth.

Huijsen admits his debut season at Real Madrid fell short of expectations and that his performances were far from perfect. His exclusion from Spain’s World Cup squad has ignited a personal ‘fire’ to improve.

During the one‑month break after the previous season, the young defender worked tirelessly, surprising Mourinho with his condition. The Spanish outlet reports his dedication has been evident.

He began training under Mourinho on Monday and has impressed in pre‑season sessions, arriving with excellent touch and fitness. Huijsen says he is leaving no stone unturned to prove his point.

If he maintains this level, nothing prevents him from earning a place in Mourinho’s starting XI. Konate remains the only young, fit defender Mourinho currently counts on.