Jules Kounde names his favourite Barcelona player: ‘He operates on another level’ | OneFootball

Jules Kounde has never been shy about recognising quality within the Barcelona squad.

The French defender, currently sidelined due to injury, used the international break to engage with fans in a different setting. 

Unable to represent France, Kounde appeared during a live broadcast of his team’s Kings League match, where he spoke about several Barcelona teammates.

Praise for Pedri

During the stream, the conversation turned to Pedri, and Kounde did not hold back in his admiration. 

He made it clear that the 23-year-old midfielder stands above the rest in his eyes.

“Pedri is my favourite player. He’s absolutely brilliant. 

“Honestly, he’s one of those players who operates on another level—including what he does in training and everything else,” he began.

Kounde then went on to explain what makes Pedri so special, focusing on the technical qualities. 

“Actually, it’s his innate technique; with his right foot and his left, he can pivot to the right or to the left, he has incredible vision of the game.”

There is more to the story

Pedri is Kounde’s favourite player. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

While Pedri is widely praised for his creativity and composure, Kounde also wanted to shine a light on an aspect of his game that often goes under the radar. 

He pointed out that many overlook just how much work Pedri does without the ball.

“There’s also a very underrated aspect that I don’t think gets enough credit: his defensive work. 

“Pedri is a player who’s constantly running and winning the ball back. Last year, he was the player who won the most balls back in Europe.”

Lastly, Kounde also emphasised the physical demands Pedri handles on a consistent basis.

“He covers about 12 km per game and, at the same time, has to win back possession, drive the team forward, distribute the ball, and break through the opposing defensive lines. 

“Pedri is absolutely brilliant,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, as Barcelona await the return of club football, Kounde himself is expected to be back after the international break.

Source: Mundo Deportivo