Jules Kounde was one of the key cogs in Hansi Flick’s team last season as FC Barcelona achieved a domestic treble.
On the back of his consistent, top-notch performances, as a right-back – not his natural position – the Frenchman was rewarded with a new contract by the club.
However, Kounde’s performances this term have left a lot to be desired, as he has looked shaky in defence and uninspired going forward – as was visible during the Clasico last week.
Time for Xavi Espart?
Given Kounde’s dip in form, it could open the doors for Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart to get an opportunity in the first team, reports Sergi Capdevila of SPORT.
The 18-year-old La Masia prospect has been a regular in first-team training under Flick this month and has been named in the matchday squad for all games since the international break.
Xavi Espart and Juan Hernandez of FC Barcelona
Xavi Espart (L) waiting for his chance. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
However, he has yet to make his senior debut for the Blaugrana, unlike some of his academy teammates such as Dro, Jofre Torrents, and Toni Fernandez.
The teenage defender has been excellent for the reserve team, Barça Atletic, almost every time he has played this season, racking up a goal and an assist in six appearances.
Espart has also scored twice in two games in the UEFA Youth League for the Juvenil A team this term. His performances in training have left the first-team coaching staff surprised.
Considering Kounde’s poor run of form and with Eric Garcia establishing himself at centre-back in recent weeks, Espart could be well placed to earn some minutes in the coming matches.