FC Barcelona are never at ease when it comes to the possibility of improving their squad for the future. Given just how demanding the footballing calendar is nowadays, it is never a bad idea to add some extra depth. However, for a club like Barcelona, quality of depth is also important.
Fortunately for Hansi Flick’s team this season, the players at his disposal have all managed to play their part well. Regardless of whether those players have been regular starters or rotational options, all of them have diligently done what Flick has asked of them.
Still, there is always room for improvement in every single aspect. Certain positions have good depth at Barcelona currently, especially the midfield positions, but there seems to be one area where the club seems to either feel like it lacks additional quality or reliable depth, and that is the right-back position.
Despite the significant number of games this season, French defender Jules Kounde has been stretched to his limit. Having been one of Hansi Flick’s most-used players this season, and even being among his untouchables in the UEFA Champions League, the Frenchman has barely had any rest.
As a result of this, according to Fabrizio Romano, there are serious conversations going on within the club to bring in one more right-back during the upcoming summer transfer window. The primary goal of this acquisition would be to give competition to Kounde but also rest.
The Frenchman himself has impressed the club this season according to Romano, but they understand that he needs some support. It has been a demanding campaign for him, but it could perhaps help him if the club manages to bring in a new competitor who is also a back-up for him.
Considering the fact that the number of games next season will more or less be similar to those this season, Barcelona are aware of the huge physical toll it can take on any player. While Kounde has managed to do well this season, there would be a massive risk to expect him to do it all over again without additional support.
While the left-back position seems to have two options who Flick tends to trust more often, as Alejandro Balde continues to impress and Gerard Martin has earned himself a renewal as well, the right-back slot remains a bit complicated. Hector Fort barely gets opportunities, and it has primarily been Kounde who has had to play the most minutes.