Barcelona's Hansi Flick Tests Frenkie de Jong at Centre-Back Role

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been experimenting with new positions for midfielder Frenkie de Jong as he seeks to get him back into the team. According to reports, De Jong has been training at centre-back during recent sessions.

Flick's decision to test De Jong in a different role is partly driven by concerns over his knee problems, which have persisted since the World Cup. The physical demands of playing midfield may be exacerbating these issues, prompting Flick to consider alternative uses for De Jong.

De Jong has been given the opportunity to train as a centre-back, but it's essential to note that this option remains under consideration rather than being a definitive change to his position.

The concerns surrounding Frenkie de Jong's knee have led coaches to explore alternative roles for the midfielder. Medical opinions suggest that surgery might be necessary, and even if he avoids it, there is a risk of instability. This has prompted consideration of how his position affects the demands on his joint.

Central midfielders are required to frequently change direction, accelerate, and brake while operating in crowded areas. In contrast, centre-backs often face fewer of these movements, although they still need to be agile and prepared for sudden changes of direction. The physical demands of defending also involve explosive actions and duels with opponents.

There is no confirmation that De Jong's potential repositioning as a centre-back is a medical recommendation or that it would eliminate the risks associated with his knee. However, playing in this role could reduce some of the stresses on his joint compared to being a central midfielder.

Flick is currently assessing the possibility of using De Jong at centre-back as he returns to group training. While there are considerable benefits to exploring this option, its feasibility and implications remain under consideration.

The midfield competition at Barcelona has reached a new level of intensity, with several players vying for spots in central positions. Rodri is currently seen as the preferred option, while Marc Bernal provides another viable alternative.

As a result, Flick may be considering alternatives to keep De Jong involved in the team, rather than relegating him to the bench. This tactical decision could also be influenced by the need to replace Pedri, who has been an integral part of Barcelona's midfield setup.

A permanent switch for De Jong would undoubtedly require significant adjustments, given his strengths lie in controlling possession from midfield and carrying the ball forward. However, with Andreas Christensen's injury leaving a shortage of options at centre-back, this move could potentially provide a solution to Barcelona's defensive needs.