Huijsen was again one of Real Madrid's standout performers in the win over Inter Milan, continuing a strong start to the season after a first year in the Spanish capital that was complicated both collectively and personally. Asked about the chaotic nature of the match itself, the Málaga-raised defender was measured.
"I don't think there was a problem with our play. We created a lot of chances, and in the end, because we didn't take them, the game became a bit crazy. We need more control," he said.
On working under Mourinho specifically, Huijsen said the demands placed on him had brought out the best in his game.
"Everyone wants their centre-back to win duels. He's right on top of me about it, and that's good for everyone," he said.
He also addressed the whistles some sections of the crowd directed at Vinícius Júnior during the match.
"Vini knows what Real Madrid is, the standards required here. We all know how good he is, he's going to keep working, he always does, and he's always got a smile on his face. The thing with the substitution was because of the new rule, sometimes it can slip your mind."
Huijsen, who has recently returned to Spain's national team picture, played down talk of an immediate recall.
"The national team isn't in my hands, but playing a lot and well for Madrid is. We have to keep going, five matches are nothing in football, the season is 50 or 60. I feel good, physically I feel better. But five matches are nothing, we have to keep it up," he said.
Reflecting on his adaptation since arriving from Bournemouth, he added: "I don't overthink it. In the end, when you arrive you don't know the magnitude of the club. Now, although there are always new things, I'm more used to it, I feel more at home. My career has been very turbulent. Now I'm good, and I keep working."
Huijsen acknowledged the intensity of scrutiny that comes with playing for Madrid, win or lose.
"The magnitude of Madrid is enormous, people always talk about us, for better or worse. We all know the demands here, I think we're more united as a group — last year was difficult," he said.
He also identified a lack of game management as an area for improvement.
"We need to compete a little better. You see opponents get fouled and they roll around, protest, and in the end you're the one who gets the yellow card. We have to get better at that — football is about emotions, for the referee too."