Overview
- De Jong came off the bench to play at right-back after half-time in Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Atlético, a role he had not previously occupied in his career and one that lasted into the 74th minute before he moved back into midfield.
- Spanish outlets gave overwhelmingly positive match ratings and described him as calm and reliable, with several praising his defensive discipline and composure on the ball after the switch to full-back.
- Mundo Deportivo recorded standout stats for De Jong in that 45-minute spell: 65 of 67 passes completed (97% accuracy) and 22 completed passes in the final third, which analysts say helped Barcelona control the game.
- Netherlands coach Xavi hailed De Jong’s return to the national squad as a major boost and emphasised the player’s versatility and leadership role ahead of Nations League matches against Greece and Germany.
- Despite the recent run of strong displays across four positions, De Jong still faces heavy competition for a regular midfield spot at Barcelona because of new signings and the emergence of academy options, so his adaptability may determine how Flick uses him going forward.