Jules Kounde’s Barcelona and France roles both under threat after worrying run | OneFootball

Jules Kounde is facing an unfamiliar spell in his career, with his place in both the Barcelona and France starting line-ups no longer looking as secure as it once did.

The defender had established himself as a near-automatic starter at right-back for club and country, but that status has changed during recent weeks. 

While his place under Hansi Flick was already under threat, his lack of involvement with France during the international break has added more uncertainty.

As such, Kounde remained an unused substitute as France drew with Italy, with Zidane once again choosing Pierre Kalulu at right-back. 

He had also been left out against Belgium and was not introduced even after Dayot Upamecano was sent off.

Kounde has played just 90 minutes in six games

The worrying thing for Kounde is that across Barcelona and France’s last six matches, he has played only 90 minutes out of a possible 540.

Jules Kounde has struggled for minutes even for France. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

That came during France’s meeting with Turkey, when Kounde completed the entire game. 

He did not feature against Levante, Racing Santander or Sevilla for Barcelona, while his subsequent international appearances against Belgium and Italy amounted to zero minutes.

Barcelona have found alternatives at right-back

Kounde’s situation at Barça has changed as competition for the position has intensified, as Flick has been able to find solutions without turning to the Frenchman.

On that note, Eric Garcia started at right-back against Levante and Sevilla, while Joao Cancelo occupied the position against Racing. 

The arrival of Cancelo, combined with Garcia’s versatility, has given Flick options that were not as readily available when Kounde’s position appeared untouchable.

Kounde has also lost his place at Barcelona. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

That competition means Kounde, who is wanted in the Premier League, now has to fight for a role he previously held almost by default.

Kounde could benefit from reduced workload

There is at least one positive for Barcelona, as Kounde will return from international duty considerably fresher than many of his teammates, having accumulated just 90 minutes for France so far.

France still have one more game during the break, against Belgium at the Stade de France on October 5, giving Kounde another chance to add to his minutes.

Eric Garcia, meanwhile, is also expected to return without significant physical concerns after leaving Spain’s camp following discomfort in his left knee. 

He did not play during the international window and has completed specific recovery work, meaning he could be available for the match against Getafe.