Xavi hints at new role for Frenkie de Jong vs Mallorca

Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has, on Friday, hinted that midfield star Frenkie de Jong could take on a new role in his XI in the club’s next fixture.

Xavi Hernandez’s troops, of course, are primed to return to action this weekend, on the back of the close of the international break.

Aware that a three-point haul would guide them clear of Clasico rivals Real Madrid to the summit of the La Liga table, the Blaugrana will make the trip to RCD Mallorca, eyeing a 6th successive league triumph.

And, less than 24 hours out from the action kicking into gear at the Iberostar Stadium, as alluded to above, Barca have hinted at a potentially major shake-up .

The international break, all told, proved something of a nightmare for those in a position of power in Catalunya’s capital.

This came as a whole host of members of Xavi’s squad fell victim to fitness concerns, with Ronald Araujo, Memphis Depay and Jules Kounde amongst those now in line for respective spells on the sidelines.

Image: Ronald Araujo arriving in Barcelona. pic.twitter.com/y9phUat8GY

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) September 29, 2022

Speaking to the media this afternoon, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of his plan of action at centre-half was put to the Spanish tactician.

And Xavi went on to hint that a member of his midfield ranks could well be in line to drop into a deeper role against Mallorca.

Specifically, the 42-year-old pointed towards Frenkie de Jong as a potential solution:

Xavi: “I could play with a midfielder as a centre-back… Like Frenkie de Jong, for example. But these are just ideas.” pic.twitter.com/4aUQOsNnnm

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) September 30, 2022

Crystal Palace vs Chelsea betting tips: Premier League preview, predictions & odds

Liverpool vs Brighton betting tips: Premier League preview, predictions & odds