Barcelona’s Jules Kounde Wants to Return to Centre-Back Position
Jules Kounde, the French defender who joined Barcelona last summer, has expressed his desire to play as a centre-back. Despite his versatility on the right flank, Kounde wants to return to his natural position in the heart of the defense. Last season, he was moved to the right side due to the good performances of Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen in the center. However, Barcelona’s financial situation and the emergence of another defender have given Kounde a fresh chance to reclaim his preferred role.
Kounde’s arrival at Barcelona was met with excitement from the fans, who were eager to see an experienced and talented player in the backline. At just 24 years old, Kounde has the potential to be a key player for years to come. The team’s defense was significantly reinforced last summer, with the signings of Christensen, Hector Bellerin, and Marcos Alonso. However, Bellerin has since left the squad, leaving Barcelona without a pure right-back.
Barcelona manager Xavi decided to rotate his players in the first part of the season to determine the best fit for each position. Araujo had already proven himself as a reliable central defender, while Kounde was moved to the right side. Despite this change, Barcelona’s defense performed exceptionally well, conceding just 20 goals in La Liga. However, Kounde did not shine as brightly in his new position and expressed his desire to return to center-back.
Xavi had a positive meeting with Kounde after a match against Real Valladolid in May. He explained that Barcelona’s system is not what it seems on paper and that they often play with three center-backs, including Kounde. The coach assured Kounde that he would not be expected to play as a typical modern full-back and that Barcelona’s style did not require a pure right-back. Kounde accepted this explanation and understood that his preferred position was still valued within the team.
Barcelona’s financial situation has prevented them from pursuing a top right-back in the transfer market. However, an unexpected option has emerged in the form of Sergino Dest. The American full-back had a difficult loan spell at AC Milan but is determined to prove himself at Barcelona. Xavi sees potential in Dest’s profile as a fast player who can play on both sides of the defense. His performances during the pre-season will determine whether he earns a place in the squad.
Right-back has been a longstanding issue for Barcelona since the departure of Dani Alves. While Sergi Roberto has filled the position adequately in the past, he is not a pure right-back. Xavi has indicated that there could be another surprise inclusion in the squad, similar to Alejandro Balde’s case last season. Balde impressed during pre-season and earned his place in the team. Kounde, Dest, and Julian Araujo will have the opportunity to showcase their talent during the upcoming pre-season, influencing Xavi’s decision-making process.
In conclusion, Jules Kounde’s desire to return to his preferred position as a center-back has been acknowledged by Barcelona manager Xavi. Despite his successful performances on the right flank, Kounde wants to reclaim his role in the heart of the defense. Barcelona’s financial constraints and the emergence of Sergino Dest as an option have given Kounde a fresh chance to prove himself. The upcoming pre-season will be crucial for Kounde, Dest, and Araujo as they compete for a place in Barcelona’s squad.