Dean Huijsen apologises after social media controversy sparks backlash in China
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The 20-year-old Spain international moved quickly to address the controversy, posting a formal apology on the club's official Chinese channels.
The issue erupted after Huijsen reposted an image on Instagram that allegedly contained derogatory remarks.
On February 21, Real Madrid defender Huijsen reposted content containing clearly insulting information about China on his personal social media. He deleted it shortly after. pic.twitter.com/kz9Ze7DXFu
— å¼ è‹—çŽ® (@MiaoWei11246) February 22, 2026
Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen reposted RACIST reels targeting the Chinese community on Instagram, sparking major backlash. Chinese football fans have flooded his comments in response. 🤮
— Quay_zone (@michaelquay11) February 23, 2026
Madrid have since issued an apology on their official Weibo account (China’s equivalent… pic.twitter.com/9vAUdwp1nB
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Read This Next →Apology delivered via Weibo
In response, Huijsen issued a public statement through Madrid's official account on Weibo, China's largest social platform.In his message, the young defender expressed regret and insisted there was no malicious intent behind the repost.
I sincerely apologise to my Chinese friends. I previously forwarded content that included offensive messages unintentionally. It was completely unintentional, and I regret the distress caused.Whilst the apology was prompt, it has not entirely quelled the backlash.
Critics have questioned why the statement appeared only on Weibo rather than Huijsen's global social media profiles, arguing that a broader response would better reflect genuine accountability.
Why the reaction has been so strong
Reports indicate that the reposted image featured highly offensive captions.Among the comments cited by online users were remarks described as demeaning and culturally insensitive, intensifying criticism of both the player and the club's communication strategy.
For many fans in China, the controversy touches on wider concerns about respect and representation in global sport.
Social media users have called for greater awareness among high-profile athletes, whose posts can rapidly reach international audiences.
Real Madrid's sensitivities in China
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Read This Next →It also revives memories of previous controversies involving supporters.
In 2024, Madrid distanced itself from a fan filmed singing lyrics containing anti-Chinese slurs ahead of the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund.
The Chinese Embassy in Spain issued a rare formal protest, and the club publicly condemned the behaviour.
Wider Context: Football and racism scrutiny
Huijsen's situation unfolds amid heightened scrutiny across European football regarding discrimination and player conduct.UEFA has been dealing with several high-profile investigations, reinforcing the sensitivity surrounding issues of race and online behaviour.
The timing is particularly awkward given Madrid's vocal support for VinÃcius Júnior, who has repeatedly been subjected to racist abuse.
Club president Florentino Pérez and the board have consistently advocated stronger measures against discrimination.
What happens next?
Neither Huijsen nor the club has publicly indicated whether internal disciplinary measures will follow.For now, attention is likely to shift back to football matters, with Madrid preparing for crucial fixtures, including their European clash with Benfica.
However, the episode serves as another reminder of the reputational risks players face in the digital age.
In an era where a single repost can trigger global consequences, athletes are under growing pressure to navigate social media with caution and cultural awareness.
As debates continue online, Huijsen's future standing among fans - particularly in Asia - may depend on whether further gestures or clarifications emerge in the coming weeks.
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