Barcelona Defensive Crisis Forces Flick to Consider De Jong as Emergency Center-Back
With Jules Kounde and Andreas Christensen sidelined, Hansi Flick is weighing a tactical shift to move Frenkie de Jong into the heart of the defense.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is facing a significant selection headache ahead of their clash with attack-minded Aston Villa. A wave of injuries has decimated the Catalan side's defensive options, forcing the coaching staff to consider radical alternatives, including deploying Frenkie de Jong as an emergency center-back.
The injury list is extensive. Jules Kounde is sidelined after spraining his left ankle against Real Betis, while Eric Garcia, Xavi Espart, and Andreas Christensen are also unavailable. These absences leave Flick with few established options to partner Pau Cubarsi in the heart of the defense, with Joao Cancelo and Gerard Martín likely taking the flank positions.
According to media reports, Flick is weighing two primary tactical setups. The first involves a more traditional approach, using youngster Brian Fariñas alongside Cubarsi. Fariñas earned praise for his disciplined performance in a recent win over Deportivo Alavés, where he provided defensive stability and allowed Lamine Yamal more freedom to attack. Although he was a midfielder at La Masia, Fariñas has shown versatility similar to that of Xavi Espart.
However, a more experimental second option is gaining traction: moving Frenkie de Jong into the backline. While primarily a midfielder, De Jong has experience in this role from his time at Ajax, where he filled in for 14 matches during the 2017-18 season. Analysts suggest he could operate as a "libero," stepping into midfield to support the attack when Barcelona has possession.
A Tactical Gamble?
Expert Alex Delmas discussed the possibility on the "Ball Possession" program, noting that while De Jong has the quality to excel there, the current injury situation might make such a shift risky against a high-pressure opponent.
"In my opinion, if De Jong plays center-back, he can perform at the highest level."
Alex Delmas
Moving De Jong back would also impact a midfield that is currently adjusting to the arrival of Rodri. A potential trio of Rodri, Pedri, and De Jong is highly anticipated, but the defensive crisis might delay that partnership. For now, Flick must decide whether to trust the youth of Fariñas or the historical versatility of his Dutch star.
"The team is in this state now, with too many injuries. I don't think we will see such an arrangement tomorrow."
Alex Delmas
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