Chill Beginnings Unfold: The Roots Behind Dean Huijsen’s Journey

What if a footballer could capture the essence of cool with just a single celebration? That’s exactly what Dean Huijsen does every time he tucks in his shirt, strikes a relaxed pose, and becomes the embodiment of the viral ‘Chill Guy’ meme.

For fans wondering, “What exactly is a Chill Guy?” or “Why does Dean do that celebration?”—the answers lie in his fascinating story.

 The “Chill Guy” isn’t just an internet sensation with a $488 million market cap on Solana; it’s a reflection of Dean’s easygoing personality and unwavering confidence. This attitude has been his hallmark since childhood, shaping his rise as a footballer and making his journey one worth exploring.

Preamble:

Since childhood, Dean has had this laid-back personality and confidence, traits that have shaped his journey from a young dreamer to a rising football star. As we dive into his story, we’ll uncover how this chill attitude has been a part of Dean’s life since his childhood glory days, defining his character both on and off the pitch.

Though the name Huijsen is unmistakably Dutch, Dean’s footballing identity belongs to Spain. To truly understand this intriguing mix, we need to dive into his family roots—something this story uncovers in detail. You’ll discover how his journey connects the dots between heritage and ambition, showing that Dean has always been the “Chill Guy” at heart. At its core, his story is about more than football; it’s about preserving a family legacy that drives him every step of the way.

Our mission has always been to bring football stories to life, and today, we’re here to spark your love for the game’s most captivating biographies. A tale about Dean Huijsen, the “Chill Guy Baller” whose journey is as unique as his signature celebration.

We’ll take you through the gallery of Dean’s life—from his early days as a die-hard Juventus fan to becoming a towering 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) force on the pitch. With his iconic move of tucking in his shirt, striking a relaxed pose, and channelling the viral ‘Chill Guy’ meme, Dean has carved a special place in football lore. This is the story of how a cool, confident kid turned his passion into a remarkable career. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Childhood Story:

Dean Donny Huijsen Wijsmuller is his full name. “Dean” is his first name, while “Huijsen” is his paternal surname and “Wijsmuller” is his maternal family name. Born on April 14, 2005, in Amsterdam, North Holland, Dean is a Spanish-Dutch professional footballer. Despite representing Spain, he comes from a proud Dutch family, with both his father, Donny, and mother hailing from the Netherlands.

From childhood, Dean has always had unwavering support from his parents. They instilled in him the values of humility and calm confidence rather than spoiling him with material wealth. This foundation helped shape the cool, composed personality that fans see both on and off the pitch. Dean’s story begins with the love and discipline of a Dutch family that taught him to balance ambition with the spirit of staying grounded.

Growing Up Years:

While celebrating the birth of their son on April 14, 2005—a month when José Mourinho’s Chelsea claimed their first Premier League title in 50 years—Donny Huijsen, Dean’s father, had big dreams for his boy. Donny, a celebrated striker for Ajax and famously nicknamed “Maradonny,” (in reference to Diego Maradona), believed his son would inherit his football talent.

However, Donny couldn’t have predicted how life would unfold. Just as little Dean turned one, the family’s journey took an unexpected turn. A life-changing piece of news set the Huijsen family on a path that would shape Dean’s future, marking the beginning of their voyage across countries and football cultures.

Donny was arrested and sentenced to five years in prison for cocaine trafficking. Despite the charges, Donny maintained his innocence and fought tirelessly to clear his name. His perseverance paid off when he was acquitted on appeal.

At the time, young Dean was barely three years old. The ordeal marked a turning point for the family, prompting them to leave their old life in the Netherlands behind. Seeking a fresh start, they relocated to Spain, a decision that would shape Dean’s upbringing and future.

In Spain, the Huijsen family embraced a fresh start. For Donny and his wife, their focus was on raising Dean with love and guiding him toward greatness. They didn’t spoil or pamper him but always celebrated his achievements, making his birthdays especially memorable.

With football talent running in his veins, it wasn’t unusual for Dean’s birthday celebrations to feature soccer-themed designs—balls, fields, and everything in between adorned the dining table. Growing up in Marbella, Málaga, Spain, Dean enjoyed a happy and adventurous childhood. His early years were filled with joy and the spark of a promising future in football.

Early Years (Football):

Dean’s journey to becoming a professional footballer started in Marbella, Andalusia, Spain, when he was just five years old. Though his family had moved from the Netherlands when he was only a year old, Dean grew up hearing stories about his father’s promising days at Ajax and HFC Haarlem. Those stories made Ajax his first football love, but Juventus would soon take over as his favourite club. At home in Marbella, Dean was still raised with strong Dutch cultural roots, blending his family’s heritage with the new life in Spain.

By the time Dean was just 3 years old, he had already embraced his calling—he wanted to play football for a living. Growing up in a football-loving home, this dream felt natural.

Even as a 6-year-old, Dean was taller than most kids his age and would spend hours honing his skills, following a rigorous fitness routine with his dad’s guidance. Once he was old enough to play on the field near his house, his talent began to shine, catching the attention of those around him.

From the moment Dean knew his calling was to become a footballer, his talent began to manifest naturally. As time passed, everything started to fall into place. Dean caught the attention of Málaga, and soon he was playing in the youth academy of the club, taking the first big step toward his dream.

Family Background:

Let’s dive deeper into the story of Donny Huijsen, Dean’s dad. Donny was born on October 25, 1973, in Amsterdam, Netherlands. His football journey began at the amateur club DWS, where his talent quickly caught the attention of Ajax scouts in 1993.

At Ajax, Donny played alongside legends like Patrick Kluivert (father of Justin Kluivert) and Clarence Seedorf. However, competition was fierce. With Kluivert ahead of him as the first-choice striker, Donny found limited opportunities to shine. Unable to settle for a secondary role, he made the bold decision to leave Ajax and seek new opportunities elsewhere.

His determination and passion for the game laid the foundation for the football legacy that Dean would later inherit.

Donny Huijsen was a prolific striker during his professional football career. While playing for Haarlem, he made a name for himself by scoring an impressive 22 goals in just 33 matches, earning the nickname “Maradonny.”

Despite his talent, Donny faced tough competition. By the 1998/99 season, Dutch football was already dominated by stars like Ruud van Nistelrooy, which limited Donny’s opportunities to break through as a national team player. He retired shortly after, leaving behind a legacy of skill and determination that would inspire his son, Dean, to follow in his footsteps.

Family Origin:

Although Dean Huijsen is making waves in the Premier League as a Spaniard, his roots are purely Dutch. His father, Donny, comes from Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, famous for its artistic heritage. Do you know why Dean represents Spain? He became a Spanish citizen in February 2024 after living in Marbella, Spain, since he was five.

Dean is naturally Dutch but has lived in Spain and Italy and now plays in England. He speaks four languages: Dutch, Spanish, Italian, and English. Notable polyglot footballers like Romelu Lukaku (CF), Amadou Onana (DM), Kevin De Bruyne, and Malick Thiaw share similar linguistic talents.

Dean’s Dutch roots trace back to Amsterdam, often called the “Venice of the North.” With 165 canals, Amsterdam has more waterways than Venice itself!

Ethnicity:

Despite representing Spain in football, Dean Huijsen’s ethnicity is Dutch. As you already know, his family heritage traces back to the Netherlands, specifically Amsterdam, where his father, Donny, originates. This connection to Dutch culture and heritage plays a significant role in Dean’s identity, even as his experiences living in Spain and Italy as a boy have shaped his multicultural perspective.

Career Buildup:

Dean Huijsen’s love for football started in his family living room. He would kick any round object he found, often breaking flower vases in the process. His passion quickly outgrew the living room, leading his parents to search for the best academy for their son. After much consideration, they chose Costa Unida CF.

For his father, Donny, the academy was a perfect choice. It was just a 16-minute drive (14.2 km) via the A-7, making it convenient for regular trips to training sessions. Although bigger clubs like Málaga CF were an option, the 43-minute drive (58.1 km) was less practical. More importantly, Donny wanted Dean to first experience the foundational football culture at Costa Unida.

At Costa Unida CF, Dean’s talent blossomed. He quickly became one of the standout players, showing skills that exceeded the level of his teammates. It wasn’t long before his abilities attracted the attention of bigger clubs. The time came for a new challenge, and Dean was ready to make the leap to one of Andalusia’s top football academies—Málaga CF.

Early Football Journey:

Picture a young boy stepping into one of Southern Spain’s top football academies, quickly earning the captain’s armband. This was Dean Huijsen, whose talent and maturity set him apart from his teammates.

Dean thrived at Málaga, the academy that once nurtured stars like Pablo Fornals. With the captain’s armband on his sleeve, it was clear—Dean felt right at home with Málaga, his beloved club.

As a young captain, Dean Huijsen led Málaga to numerous trophy wins, solidifying his love for the club. He never imagined a day would come when he’d have to leave. Málaga transformed him from an ambitious boy into a bold teenager. Arriving in 2015 and departing in 2021, Dean’s years at the club were filled with unforgettable memories.

Saying goodbye was tough, especially to a club that gave him all his childhood trophies. While there were plenty of happy moments, there were also challenging ones. Yet, one thing was clear—Dean’s ambition to succeed at the highest level and thrive in the most competitive football environments was greater than his love for any single team.

Path to Fame:

Dean Huijsen was such a strong and talented captain at Malaga that even Real Madrid came chasing after him. In 2021, he made the move to Juventus, a club he had always admired. With his sharp mind, Dean quickly learned Italian, adding another language to his growing skills and becoming a true polyglot.

At Juventus, everyone believed in his potential. The club, one of Europe’s football powerhouses, became a core part of his heart and identity. Dean made an impressive start, scoring seven goals as a defender in his first season with the U-17 youth team.

For those who know him, Dean’s love for Juventus wasn’t just spoken—it was like it was etched on his soul, as if written on his forehead for all to see.

When Dean Huijsen shone at Juventus, he also focused on making his mark internationally. He worked hard, progressing from the Netherlands U16 to the U19 teams. One of his proudest moments was at the UEFA European Under-17 Championship in 2017. Dean was among the youngest players in the squad and the only Dutch player representing a club outside the Netherlands. His parents were his biggest supporters, cheering him on all the way to the tournament’s final.

In the competition, Dean scored two crucial penalties against France and Poland, helping his team reach the final. Ultimately, it was France, with stars like Mathys Tel and Warren Zaïre-Emery, who won the tournament. Despite not winning, Dean’s parents were even prouder of their son for his bravery and remarkable performance, especially as one of the youngest players to leave a lasting impression.

Turning Pro:

Dean Huijsen’s love for the Juventus shirt grew stronger as he showcased his skills at the Allianz Stadium. In January 2023, his hard work paid off when he was promoted to Juventus Next Gen, the club’s reserve team. It was a dream come true for Dean when he signed his first professional contract with Juventus, marking a major milestone in his football journey.

With a roster of experienced centre-backs, Dean Huijsen couldn’t break into Massimiliano Allegri’s first team at Juventus. The competition included players like Danilo, Tiago Djaló, Daniele Rugani, Tarik Muharemovic, and Federico Gatti.

In June 2023, Huijsen renewed his contract with Juventus after making 40 official appearances and scoring ten goals across the U19 and Next Gen teams.

Meanwhile, José Mourinho, faced with struggles in his AS Roma defence, turned his attention to Huijsen. With seasoned players like Chris Smalling and Evan Ndicka failing to meet expectations, Mourinho saw promise in the young talent to strengthen his side.

Moving On:

Huijsen joined Roma on loan on January 6, 2024. He made an instant impact, but it wasn’t enough to save Mourinho’s job as Roma’s manager. After Mourinho’s exit, the club spiralled into crisis, sacking both Ivan Jurić and Daniele De Rossi within a single season.

At first, Huijsen thrived under Daniele De Rossi, but a controversial incident changed everything. After scoring a goal, he celebrated provocatively in response to whistles from opposing fans, prompting De Rossi to drop him from the team.

Meanwhile, with players like Pierre Kalulu joining Thiago Motta’s Juventus senior squad, it became clear that Huijsen would struggle for game time upon his return. This wasn’t what his father, who also served as his agent, wanted for him. Leaving his beloved Juventus was tough for Huijsen, but it was a necessary step for the sake of his career.

Among the many clubs interested in him, one stood out: Premier League side AFC Bournemouth. Known as the Cherries, the club had a family-oriented atmosphere and was led by Spanish coach Andoni Iraola. For Dean’s father, Donny, the connection to Spain was crucial, and Andoni’s presence as a Spaniard made Bournemouth the perfect choice.

On July 30, 2024, Huijsen signed a six-year deal with AFC Bournemouth. On his departure, he shared an emotional message with Juventus fans, saying the club would always be a fundamental part of his heart and life. Dean emphasized that his move wasn’t a final goodbye and expressed hope to return and play for them again in the future. The rest, as they say, is history.

Personality:

Dean Huijsen’s laid-back style and effortless cool nature aren’t just confined to the football pitch. In fact, they’re a big part of who he is off the field, too. Away from the spotlight, the Spanish-Dutch Defender is still the same relaxed, confident person that fans have come to know through his iconic ‘Chill Guy’ celebration.

It’s easy to see how Dean’s personality naturally aligns with the meme. Fans who follow him closely aren’t at all surprised by his choice to adopt the ‘Chill Guy’ persona. From a young age, Huijsen’s been all about keeping it cool, both in how he carries himself and in his approach to life. His easygoing attitude has always set him apart, whether he was kicking a ball around as a kid, as described earlier, or growing into the footballer he is today. The same confidence that drives Dean on the pitch spills over into his everyday life, where he remains grounded and true to his roots. It’s this authenticity that makes his ‘Chill Guy’ character more than just a celebration but it’s a reflection of who he truly is.

Lifestyle:

Speaking of the way he lives, Dean is the ultimate “chill guy” – both on and off the pitch. During holidays, he knows how to truly relax and enjoy life. Dean has a knack for finding the best spots across Europe where he can recharge his batteries. He prefers lounging in a cosy café in Paris or enjoying the seaside strolling along the stunning Spanish coast. When it comes to food, Huijsen is a true connoisseur, someone who adores savouring some of the finest dishes Europe has to offer. For Dean, life isn’t just about football; it’s about enjoying every moment, both on and off the pitch.

Family Life:

Dean’s career is carefully managed by members of his household, who are deeply involved in ensuring his best interests are always at the forefront, no matter where his journey takes him. But beyond the business side, his family knows how to enjoy quality time together, away from the pressures of work.

Moments like these, spent in the company of loved ones, are what make life interesting for Dean. They remind him of what truly matters and fuel his passion when he returns to the pitch. Knowing he has the unwavering support of those he loves gives him the strength and motivation to tackle any challenge that comes his way.

Donny Huysen:

Dean’s Dad, an Amsterdam native, is the picture of a kind and supportive father. During his football career, he earned the nickname “Maradona,” a testament to his talent. However, his era was dominated by top Dutch strikers like Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Patrick Kluivert, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Dennis Bergkamp. Many felt it was unfortunate he remained in their shadow. His career took a downturn after being sentenced to five years in prison for cocaine trafficking, though he was acquitted on appeal in 2006. Since then, Donny has focused on his loved ones, dedicating himself to ensuring the best for everyone, especially his son, Dean.

Huijsen’s Mother:

Call Dean a “chill guy,” and he’d happily agree. Call him a mummy’s boy? He’d embrace that too with a big grin. Sitting close to his mom in the comfort of a private jet, Dean exudes the warmth of their special bond. He openly professes the unconditional love he enjoys from her—a love that has been his constant through every high and low.

Untold Facts:

In the final section of Dean Huijsen’s Biography, we’ll unveil more important facts that relates to him. Now, without further ado, let begin.

Underatted in FC24:

When EA SPORTS FC 24 launched, fans were curious about Dean Huijsen’s ratings. Unfortunately, the 18-year-old, despite his rise in senior football, was given poor stats. At the time, Dean was still relatively unknown and hadn’t made a name for himself at Bournemouth. Now, with his rise to fame as the “chill guy” scoring against Premier League giants, it’s only a matter of time before EA SPORTS FC takes notice. His growing recognition is bound to reflect in better ratings in future editions of the game. Dean Huijsen deserves an 88 FC25 potential rating, just like Giorgio Scalvini.

Huijsen’s Bournemouth Salary

In 2024, data from Capology, a trusted source for football salaries, revealed that Dean Huijsen earns £30,000 weekly and £1,560,000 annually. This places him slightly below mid-table earners like Tyler Adams (£60,000 weekly), Illia Zabarnyi (£50,000), and Marcus Tavernier (£35,000). Bournemouth’s highest-paid player, Evanilson, earns £85,000 weekly and £4,420,000 annually. Marcus Tavernier and Max Aarons earn slightly more than Dean, with weekly wages of £35,000. With Dean’s rapid rise and interest from top clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, and Real Madrid, Bournemouth is likely to offer him an improved contract soon.

Dean Huijsen Religion

Research shows he is the kind of player who doesn’t shy away from sharing glimpses of his faith on social media. However, the exact nature of Dean Huijsen’s religion remains unclear. Looking at his roots in Amsterdam, a city historically shaped by a mix of Christianity, Judaism, and secular beliefs, the odds lean toward him aligning with one of these traditions. While he keeps it subtle, his posts hint at a deeply personal connection to his family and career, rather than spirituality.

End Note:

Dean Huijsen, a talented polyglot speaking four languages, is making a huge impact in football. Born in Amsterdam, he moved to Marbella with his family at just five years old. His father, Donny Huijsen, was once a rising star, playing for Ajax and earning the nickname “Maradonny” at HFC Haarlem.

But Donny’s career took a hit due to personal issues, including a prison sentence for cocaine trafficking in 2006, from which he was eventually acquitted. Despite these challenges, Donny moved his family to Spain, where Dean kicked off his football journey at Málaga’s youth academy.

Huijsen’s path in football took him from Málaga to Juventus, where he trained with the first team and later moved to Roma on loan. His steady rise in Italy culminated in a move to AFC Bournemouth in 2024, where he continued to showcase his skills. Along the way, Dean’s family remained a significant influence, with his father’s advice shaping his approach to both football and life.

While Dean’s story is defined by his father’s complex legacy, he has carved his own identity both on and off the pitch, moving forward with a commitment to hard work, family, and a clear focus on his football career.

Appreciation Note:

Thank you for taking the time to read Dean Huijsen’s story. We are committed to accuracy and fairness in sharing football stories, just as we’ve done with players like Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo. If you notice anything in this article that doesn’t seem right or needs correcting, please let us know. We’d love to hear your thoughts on Dean, his career, and the impressive journey behind his name.