Hansi Flick tests veteran Barcelona midfielder at centre-back – report

According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday, October 12, 2026, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is considering deploying Frenkie de Jong in central defence after experimenting with the Dutch international in that position during training last week.

The report, citing SPORT, states that Flick is assessing the midfielder’s versatility as he works towards regaining his place in the team. When asked whether De Jong could play as a centre-back, the German coach responded: “Yes, he can play there. Frenkie is one of the options.”

De Jong, 29, has been dealing with knee problems since the World Cup, leading Barcelona to take a cautious approach to his recovery. However, there is no confirmation that the potential positional change is connected to medical advice regarding his injury.

Barcelona’s current defensive situation could be another reason behind Flick’s experiment. With Andreas Christensen sidelined by injury, the Catalan club have fewer options at centre-back and may need to explore alternative solutions.

De Jong’s ability to carry the ball forward and distribute possession could make him a useful option in defence, particularly in a system that requires players to build attacks from the back.

Competition in midfield may also play a part in Flick’s considerations, with Rodri and Marc Bernal providing alternative options in the middle of the pitch.

Nevertheless, there is no indication that De Jong is being prepared for a permanent switch to central defence. For now, Flick appears to be examining how the midfielder’s versatility could help Barcelona address their defensive shortage while carefully managing his return to full fitness.

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