In a move that has surprised the football world, Emirates Airline has announced an unprecedented personal sponsorship deal with Dean Huijsen, the 20-year-old Spanish defender who recently joined Real Madrid. This agreement, which marks a milestone in the relationship between football and global brands, not only guarantees Huijsen free first-class flights to all of his tournaments, but also includes financial support of $2 million annually to boost his career. Emirates presented this initiative as part of its “Accelerating Dreams” campaign, designed to support and promote emerging talents in the sport. Huijsen’s reaction, filled with emotion and gratitude, resonated in the hearts of fans, while Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez was full of praise for his new star.
Dean Huijsen, who became the most expensive defensive signing in Real Madrid history after his €58 million move from Bournemouth in June 2025, has proven to be much more than just a player. His talent on the pitch, combined with his humility and charisma off it, has made him a rising icon. The announcement of the Emirates sponsorship comes at a key moment in his career, just as he prepares to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid. This deal not only underscores his growing influence in global football but also highlights Emirates’ vision of investing in young players who embody the future of the sport.
The contract with Emirates is unique. In addition to covering Huijsen’s first-class travel expenses, ensuring he arrives at each competition in top condition, the financial support of $2 million annually will allow him to fully focus on his development as a player. Emirates emphasized that its “Accelerating Dreams” campaign seeks to identify and support talents who not only shine for their ability but also inspire new generations. In this sense, Huijsen, with his history of hard work and dedication, fits perfectly into this vision. His career, from his beginnings in Spanish football to his breakthrough in the Premier League with Bournemouth and his subsequent arrival at Real Madrid, is a testament to his commitment to the sport.
Huijsen’s reaction to the sponsorship announcement was deeply emotional. In a statement posted on social media, the young defender expressed his gratitude to Emirates for believing in his potential and providing him with such a significant opportunity. “It’s an incredible honor to be part of the Emirates family. This support means so much to me and my family, and it motivates me to give my all on the pitch to make my dreams and those of those who believe in me come true,” he wrote. His sincere words have resonated with fans, who see in him not only a great player, but also a genuine and grateful person.
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez was full of praise for Huijsen, highlighting both his talent and his character. During the player’s official presentation in June 2025, Pérez had already described him as “one of those great talents who burst onto the scene in football with the power to inspire us for many years to come.” Following the sponsorship announcement, Pérez once again praised the defender, stating that his commitment and humility are a reflection of the club’s values. “Dean is an example of what it means to wear the Real Madrid shirt. We are proud to have him on board and that brands like Emirates recognize his potential,” the president said.
This sponsorship not only has implications for Huijsen, but also strengthens the relationship between Emirates and Real Madrid, a club with which the airline has maintained a long-standing partnership. Emirates’ decision to invest in an individual player marks a new chapter in its marketing strategy, focusing on young figures who can become global ambassadors for the brand. For Huijsen, this endorsement represents an opportunity to establish himself as one of the best defenders in the world, while taking the name of Real Madrid and Emirates to new heights.
As Huijsen prepares for his first full season with Real Madrid, the football world watches with bated breath. His combination of talent, humility, and now the backing of a global brand like Emirates positions him as one of the sport’s most promising figures. With the Club World Cup just around the corner, fans are hoping to see how this young defender continues to make his mark, both on and off the pitch, while carrying the weight of expectation and the pride of representing two giants: Real Madrid and Emirate
