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Dumfries backed to thrive at Real Madrid

  /  autty

Denzel Dumfries will fit right in at Real Madrid, so says Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez.

Madrid are set to sign Dumfries, who has been one of Europe's best attacking full-backs during his time at Inter.

Dumfries is in action with the Netherlands at the World Cup. In fact, he provided two assists in the Oranje's 5-1 win over Sweden on Saturday.

The 30-year-old has now recorded 31 goal involvements for the Netherlands (11 goals, 20 assists), and has five goal contributions in seven World Cup appearances.

And Martinez, Inter's back-up goalkeeper, feels Dumfries will be an instant hit at Madrid.

"I think it's a great signing for Real Madrid. I think it's a fantastic choice, although I'm sorry he's leaving us because he's a tremendous player, the kind you always want on your team," Martinez told Marca.

"He gives his all on the pitch and will bring a real boost to Real Madrid on the right wing, not only because of his power, speed, and attacking runs, but also because of his experience and leadership, as he was one of the team's leaders at Inter. 

"Real Madrid have made the right decision, and I wish him all the best, except when he plays against us, if that ever happens."

Asked what Dumfries can offer, Martinez added: "Presence, energy, and experience. He's ready to perform at the highest level from the first minute."

Dumfries has played mainly as a wing-back at Inter, and there have been questions over his defensive capabilities, but Martinez does not feel that will be an issue.

"He's performed phenomenally well with that system in recent years, and I think it's ideal for him because of his constant runs down the wing, but I don't think it will be a problem for him to perform in a back four because he's an intelligent, versatile player who knows how to adapt to different situations," Martinez said.

"I'm sure [Jose] Mourinho already knows what his role will be, and he'll play it perfectly.

"He's already proven it, both in Italy and in Europe. Last season we reached the Champions League final, eliminating teams like Barcelona and Bayern Munich, and his defensive performance against top-level wingers was extraordinary.

"It's true that his main strength is attacking, but he's good defensively and usually wins a lot of duels. What he's been asked to do lately, primarily, is push forward, but if he has to drop back a bit, he'll do that brilliantly too."

Dumfries has played 207 games for Inter, scoring 27 goals, providing 22 assists and creating 153 chances.

During his time in Italy, Dumfries has won two Serie A titles and enjoyed three Coppa Italia triumphs. He also played a key role in Inter reaching the Champions League final in 2023 and 2025.