Barcelona defender determined to fight back after difficult spell under Hansi Flick
· Yahoo Sports
Jules Kounde is convinced that he can re-establish himself as a key player at Barcelona despite a difficult period involving an ankle injury, reduced playing time and increased competition under Hansi Flick.
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According to SPORT, the French defender has acknowledged that his previous season fell below his expectations but remains determined to regain his importance within the team.
The situation comes as Kounde celebrates his 28th birthday, and even though he is entering an age commonly associated with a defender’s prime, his current circumstances remain a significant challenge after several seasons of consistency at Camp Nou.
Kounde faces a difficult period in Flick’s Barcelona project
Kounde’s current situation is particularly striking given how important he has been since joining Barcelona.
The defender has previously established himself as one of the most dependable options in the squad, offering Flick versatility and reliability across the defensive line.
However, an ankle injury has interrupted his progress, with his recovery taking longer than initially expected.
Kounde is determined to fight for his place. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Barcelona officially confirmed on October 18 that Kounde had suffered a left ankle sprain following the match against Real Betis, and the club stated that his availability would depend on his recovery.
Furthermore, the defender has also lost his undisputed status with the French national team, with Eric Garcia now featuring as Flick’s first-choice right back.
Kounde’s change in status
The troubling statistics help explain how Kounde’s involvement at Barcelona has gradually decreased.
During the 2023-24 campaign, he accumulated 4,099 minutes across 48 appearances, starting 45 matches.
His importance increased further in 2024-25, when he recorded 4,418 minutes in 53 appearances, including 50 starts.
However, the 2025-26 season brought a noticeable decline, with his involvement dropping to 3,528 minutes across 47 matches and 39 starts.
Kounde has gradually lost his place at Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
The trend continued at the beginning of 2026-27, as Kounde managed 458 minutes across eight official appearances, starting four times and coming off the bench on four occasions.
Eric Garcia competition is a big obstacle
Kounde’s injury is not the only factor affecting his position, as Eric Garcia has gained ground in Flick’s preferences at right-back, creating additional competition for a defender who previously enjoyed considerable continuity.
Importantly, Kounde himself has recognised that his decline in prominence began before his latest physical setback.
As a result, the French defender faces a challenge not only to stay fit, but also to show that he can still fight for a place.
However, it is quite clear that his next opportunity will come only when he is fit to play.