Spanish media unanimous in their verdict on Frenkie de Jong in unique position against Atlético

On Sunday evening, Frenkie de Jong impressed the Spanish media as FC Barcelona beat Atlético Madrid 1-2. The midfielder began on the bench, then played at right-back for the first time in his career after the break. The Dutchman passed that test convincingly and drew glowing reviews.

Coach Hansi Flick made the surprise decision to start Brian Fariñas at right-back, while Marc Bernal got the nod in midfield. Giuliano Simeone put Atlético ahead in a difficult first half for Barcelona, prompting Flick to make a change. De Jong replaced Fariñas at half-time and took over at right-back from the 46th minute.

At right-back, De Jong excelled, ElDesmarque concludes. The Spanish outlet gives him an 8 and says he also played at a high level at right-back. It found him dependable both in defence and in midfield and credited him with an important role in the comeback.

El Nacional also gives De Jong a 7. The Catalan outlet calls him 'organised' and says he did exactly what was asked of him: rarely giving the ball away and bringing calm. It says he maintained that level when he returned to midfield.

For Cadena SER, De Jong also impressed. "Partidazo del neerlandés," writes the Spanish outlet, calling it a great match from the Dutchman. It also notes that De Jong has earned increasing appreciation from supporters since his return from injury.

Mundo Deportivo focuses above all on De Jong's role as a joker in Flick's team. The sports newspaper says he proved his worth in both positions and helped Barcelona retain possession after they took the lead. His work helped Barcelona keep the match under control.

Shortly before half-time, Fermín López equalised. He also scored to make it 1-2 in the 66th minute from a Lamine Yamal assist. De Jong was still playing at right-back for that goal, a position he occupied until the 74th minute. The former Ajax player then moved back into midfield.