Hansi Flick decides the starting right-back for Barcelona this season | OneFootball

There seems to be a clear understanding at FC Barcelona regarding the players who are considered guaranteed starters. However, there are definitely certain positions within the team that could use a bit more clarity in that regard as the season progresses.

One such position is that of the right-back role, where a few different players are fighting and competing for minutes. Across several recent seasons under different coaches, French defender Jules Kounde was the player who led the race to be the team’s starting right-back.

However, things seem to have changed since then. Similar to how it was for much of the second half of last season in particular, SPORT has reported that Hansi Flick has now chosen Spanish defender Eric Garcia as his preferred starter.

In fact, the report claims that this has been communicated to Jules Kounde as well. Just as it was during the recent clash against Elche, the Frenchman will now have to focus on operating as a centre-back more while Garcia’s primary position is now at right-back after being told by Flick that his new role will primarily revolve around that particular flank.

Unfortunately for Kounde, he is not a starting option at centre-back either. With the likes of Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin considered to be the Barcelona coach’s desired centre-back partnership, Kounde is left in a limbo of sorts where he is simply a rotation piece who can fill the gaps wherever he is needed across the defensive line.

Still, all hope is not lost for the 27-year-old French defender, who is all too familiar with the centre-back position due to his years of experience with it and will likely fight for his place in the team. Yet, if Alejandro Balde’s case is anything to go by, Kounde might want to showcase his highest possible level sooner rather than later if he wants to retain his spot within this squad.