Flick’s De Jong experiment at right-back leaves Xavi impressed

 

Frenkie de Jong’s unexpected appearance at right-back for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid has drawn praise from his former manager Xavi Hernandez, who says the midfielder is capable of performing at the highest level in almost any position.

The Netherlands international helped surprise Atletico in the 2-1 match against Wimbledon, coming on as a second-half substitute before starting at right-back and later moving into midfield. His unusual role became a major talking point as he joined the Netherlands squad on Monday.

De Jong’s positional flexibility was particularly striking because the match was played with top spot at stake. Hans-Dieter Flick initially used him to strengthen the right side of the defence, before moving him back into midfield during the decisive stages of the game.

Xavi, now manager of the Netherlands and previously De Jong’s coach at Barcelona, admitted he was also surprised to see the player operate in that position.

“Yesterday against Atletico, De Jong played at right-back. That is not what I had planned, although I also used him as a centre-back at Barcelona,” Xavi said at a news conference.

“But what I am certain of is that Frenkie is a top-level player who can play in any position, whether as a holding midfielder or a central midfielder. He is a top-level player.”

The comments underline the range of roles De Jong has occupied during his career. He can operate as a number six, play as a central midfielder or centre-back, and has now added right-back to that list without appearing to compromise his effectiveness.

Flick’s decision was more than a forced change during a difficult match. With the result carrying significance in the battle for first place, the Barcelona manager trusted De Jong to close down the right flank before using his composure and passing ability to restore balance in midfield.

That versatility is what impressed Xavi, who sees De Jong as a player not restricted by one fixed position. Instead, the Dutchman’s adaptability allows him to meet the demands of different tactical situations while maintaining his quality.

De Jong has now joined the Netherlands squad as the team prepares for two Nations League fixtures. The Netherlands lead Group B with eight points from a possible 12.

They host Greece, who also have eight points, on Friday before travelling to face Germany on Monday. Germany have collected five points.

For the Netherlands, Xavi must now consider how best to use a player whose ability to cover multiple positions offers several options. At Barcelona, meanwhile, Flick’s experiment has raised the question of whether right-back could become a genuine alternative for De Jong or whether it was simply an emergency solution on an extraordinary night at the Metropolitano.