Sports · Football · 18 hrs ago
Flick’s positional changes help Barcelona steady its defence against Atlético
With Jules Koundé and Espart injured, Barcelona lacked a natural right-back for its match against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano.
Hansi Flick started Brian Fariñas there, but Atlético took an early lead after a Barcelona defensive lapse.
Flick then moved Frenkie de Jong to right-back, and Barcelona gained more control of the ball in midfield.
After Barcelona went ahead 2-1, Flick shifted De Jong into his usual midfield role and brought Eric García on at right-back.
Gerard Martín moved to the left side, while Andreas Christensen came into central defence.
The changes helped Barcelona steady its defence and gave the team more possession.
Flick has now used six players at right-back as he adapts to injuries and other absences.
Hansi Flick changed Barcelona’s defensive positions during their match against Atlético to address weaknesses at the back.
Barcelona conceded in the ninth minute when Giuliano scored from a Julián Álvarez cross.
Flick moved Frenkie de Jong to right-back, then later shifted him into his usual midfield role.
Eric Garcia came on at right-back, while Gerard Martín moved to the left flank.
The changes helped Barcelona gain more possession and counter Atlético’s early advantage.
- Who
- Barcelona, coached by Hansi Flick, and Atlético Madrid.
- What
- Flick made positional changes to Barcelona’s defence during the match.
- When
- The match was reported on November 8, 2026; the article describes it as having taken place the previous day.
- Where
- The Metropolitano.
- Why
- Flick saw defensive weaknesses and wanted to counter Atlético’s early superiority and give Barcelona more possession.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Giuliano scored from a Julián Álvarez cross after Barcelona lost possession.
Flick replaced Brian Fariñas at right-back with Frenkie de Jong.
Flick moved De Jong into midfield and brought Eric Garcia on at right-back.
- Barcelona’s opponent
- Atlético Madrid
- Stadium
- Metropolitano
- Opening goal
- Giuliano scored in the 9th minute
- De Jong’s positions
- Attacking midfielder, centre-back, right-back and pivot
- Score after Fermín’s second goal
- Barcelona led 2-1