Barcelona manager Hansi Flick could explore an unconventional tactical solution to his team’s difficulties against opponents defending deep by deploying Frenkie de Jong at right-back and allowing the Dutch midfielder to move into central areas when his side has possession.

According to Barca Universal on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the proposal would take advantage of De Jong’s outstanding ball-carrying ability to help Barcelona penetrate compact defensive formations. Rather than functioning as a traditional full-back throughout a match, he would move into midfield during attacking phases, creating additional passing options and helping the team progress the ball more effectively.

Flick has already introduced similar movements into Barcelona’s tactical structure. Eric Garcia frequently advances from defence into midfield to support possession and provide additional passing outlets. However, De Jong could offer a different dimension because of his ability to carry the ball past opponents and disrupt defensive organisation.

During the 2025-26 campaign, De Jong ranked in the 96th percentile for progressive carries, according to the report. This statistic highlights his ability to move the ball forward and suggests that he could help Barcelona overcome opponents who successfully restrict their usual passing combinations.

When De Jong drives forward, opposing midfielders may be forced to leave their positions to close him down. That movement could create valuable spaces for Pedri and Lamine Yamal to exploit, giving Barcelona more opportunities to advance into dangerous attacking areas.

Under the proposed arrangement, De Jong would begin at right-back before moving alongside Pedri in midfield when Barcelona control possession. Rodri could remain in a deeper position alongside Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin, providing defensive protection against potential counter-attacks.

An alternative approach would see Rodri join De Jong and Pedri in midfield, giving Barcelona additional numbers in central areas and allowing more players to participate in attacks. The effectiveness of either option would depend on the opponent, the match situation and the team's ability to maintain defensive balance.

The adjustment could also benefit Barcelona's wide attackers. Raphinha would have greater freedom to draw defenders away from central positions, while Yamal could maintain width on the right flank. De Jong's ability to switch play could help the team exploit openings on the opposite side and stretch tightly organised defences.

Nevertheless, the experiment would carry considerable risks. If Barcelona lose possession while De Jong moves forward, the right flank could become exposed, allowing opponents to launch dangerous counter-attacks. Rodri's positioning would therefore be essential in protecting the defensive line. De Jong would also need to demonstrate that he could fulfil the defensive responsibilities associated with playing as a full-back.

His recent recovery from a knee injury could delay any immediate implementation of the idea.

Despite these concerns, the tactical possibility offers Flick another potential method of breaking down stubborn opponents. Rather than permanently changing De Jong's position, Barcelona could use his versatility selectively to create unpredictability, improve ball progression and add another dimension to their attacking play.