Flick tests De Jong at centre-back

Barcelona's manager Hans Flick has started experimenting with Frenkie de Jong in the centre-back position, a move that may be linked to the knee issues the player has suffered, alongside the competition for midfield positions.

According to the newspaper 'Sport', Frenkie de Jong trained in the centre-back position last week, since his return to team training. It noted that some medical opinions suggested the player should undergo knee surgery, warning of the possibility of joint instability if he does not.

Hansi Flick has previously opened the door to this option, stating before the match against Getafe: "Of course he can play, we have several options, and Frenkie is one of the options to play as a centre-back." Additionally, his position change may be linked to the presence of Rodri and Marc Bernal in the holding midfielder role, and not being considered a natural replacement for Pedri.

On the recovery front, Frenkie de Jong is feeling good during training and hopes to reach full fitness before facing Real Madrid. Julian Nagelsmann has not ruled out his return against Real Betis.

This change raises questions about de Jong's future with Barcelona, as a reduction in his role in midfield or a move to a new position may influence his future decisions. Flick's decision upon his full fitness will determine whether playing at centre-back is a permanent shift or merely part of the recovery phase.