The defender will now wear the number after previously using No. 24 during his debut campaign at the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid have officially confirmed their squad numbers for the upcoming season, with Huijsen taking on one of the club's most prestigious jerseys.

The 21-year-old is particularly proud of the switch, having grown up admiring players such as Ramos and Fernando Hierro. His Málaga roots make the connection to Hierro especially meaningful, while wearing the same number as his childhood idols marks a significant milestone in his career.

The shirt was most recently worn by David Alaba, who has left Madrid. Huijsen has acknowledged the Austrian's contribution to his development, saying Alaba helped him adapt to the demands of first-team football at Valdebebas and offered guidance away from the pitch.

"It's always been my dream to play for Real Madrid and wear the number 4. As a child, my biggest idol was always Sergio Ramos, who wore this number and was a true legend for Real Madrid and world football," Huijsen stated via social media.

"I still remember playing in his SR4 boots because I wanted to be like him. Before him, another legend like Fernando Hierro also wore this number. It makes it especially meaningful to me because he was from Malaga too, just like me.

"I want to thank the club, the president, the manager, the players and all the fans of this great club. I know this number has a history filled with legends, and I hope to write my own story so that one day people will consider me worthy of having worn this shirt and this number.

"What I do know is that I will give everything every day, whether in training or in a match.

"After that, another great football legend, David Alaba, wore it, and I had the pleasure of sharing a dressing room with him. Without a doubt, he was one of the best teammates and people I have met in this sport.

"He always worked hard and was willing to help everyone with his experience and leadership. I want to thank the club, the president, the manager, the players and all the fans of this great club."

Newly-appointed Newcastle boss Mathias Jaissle opens up on 'emotional' touchline personality