Flick 'very happy' with defender De Jong, who hopes for midfield chance

De Jong impressed in an unfamiliar central defensive role in Barcelona's 6-0 win, earning praise from Flick, though he prefers midfield.

Frenkie de Jong made his first start since returning from injury in an unconventional role for Barcelona in their 6-0 victory over Deportivo Alavés. With defensive injuries mounting, manager Hansi Flick deployed the midfielder as a centre-back, where he performed well enough to earn the German coach's approval. "Frenkie indicated himself that he can play as a defender while we're thin at the back. He did it brilliantly and I'm very happy with him," Flick told the press.

Goalkeeper Joan García acknowledged the unusual setup but praised De Jong's performance alongside Brian Fariñas, who played right-back. De Jong himself, however, reiterated his preference for a midfield role. "That's where I'm at my best, but if I'm needed elsewhere, I'm ready," he said.

The attacking players stole the headlines, with Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Fermín López among the scorers. Flick highlighted Yamal's display as exactly what he wanted to see after recent defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.