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World Sports

Balde Surprised as Flick Deploys De Jong at Right-Back Against Atletico Madrid

Balde Surprised as Flick Deploys De Jong at Right-Back Against Atletico Madrid
World Sports · 04:40:44 - Saturday, 14 November 2026

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick sprang a tactical surprise ahead of the match against Atletico Madrid by naming midfielder Frenkie de Jong at right-back, leaving regular left-back Alejandro Balde reportedly surprised by the decision.

The unconventional selection sees De Jong, typically a central midfielder, deployed in a defensive role on the right flank for the high-profile La Liga encounter.

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