Jules Kounde has started two of Barcelona’s eight official games this season. Eric Garcia has taken the right-back spot under Hansi Flick.
According to SPORT, the decision is purely sporting, and Kounde was told he remains part of the project but is no longer a strategic player for the club and the coach.
Kounde addressed the situation while on international duty with France. He said he is fit and not injured, and he described his reduced minutes as a consequence of a last season that was far below his standards.
He added: “It’s up to me to rediscover my best form.”
The drop in status has followed him to the national team. Zinedine Zidane started him in France’s 1-0 win over Turkiye, but picked Pierre Kalulu at right-back for the win over Belgium and the draw with Italy.
Kounde was an unused substitute in both, and France face Belgium again on Monday.
The change at Barcelona did not come out of nowhere.
SPORT reported that the club made its position clear in the summer and was open to a sale, but Kounde chose to stay and fight for his place.
The 27-year-old joined Barcelona from Sevilla in 2022 and extended his contract until June 2030 in August 2025.
That backdrop has drawn attention in England. SPORT reports that Liverpool are among the Premier League clubs monitoring Kounde’s situation.
Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City are also following it. The report says England values Kounde for his versatility, his international experience and his ability to play at right-back and in central defence.
Chelsea and Arsenal are described as the strongest contenders. Chelsea value his defensive versatility, and Arsenal showed interest last summer.
Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are watching closely, according to the report. That interest could grow if Jules Kounde does not regain a leading role in the coming months.
Liverpool have already done business with Barcelona this summer, with Ronald Araujo joining the club on a season-long loan. The deal could be made permanent if Liverpool are satisfied with his performances and fitness.
The Uruguay international has settled in quickly and has taken up the right-back role despite primarily playing as a centre-back.
Bayern Munich are also monitoring his situation. They could explore a January move if they sell Kim Min-jae, and there has been no contact with the player.
Barcelona are reportedly looking at right-back alternatives, including Sporting’s Ivan Fresneda.
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