What is happening with Jules Kounde at Barcelona as club deny rift despite visible signals | OneFootball

The 2025-26 season once again brought success for FC Barcelona, as they lifted both La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, but it also turned into a year of mixed situations for several individuals in the squad.

One of the clearest examples of that is Jules Kounde, who started the campaign as an important part of Hansi Flick’s plans after being a regular figure in the previous season, but gradually saw his influence drop as the months went on, especially in the second half of the season when he lost his status as a fixed starter at right back.

As SPORT has noted, this change has also led to some small details being noticed around the club. Kounde was seen leaving the La Liga title celebration dinner in Castelldefels earlier than most, shortly after the speeches had finished, and he also did not travel with the squad for the final league match away to Valencia.

While there has been some talk around his mood in recent weeks, the club is clear in denying any kind of issue between the player and the dressing room or the institution itself.

At the same time, Kounde’s situation on the pitch has naturally raised questions. His season has not carried the same consistency that once made him an undisputed starter, and in recent weeks, he has even seen Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo preferred in certain important matches in the right back role.

Despite this, both the player and his camp have maintained that he is happy in Barcelona and has no intention of leaving, even with continued interest from the Premier League and ongoing squad planning discussions.

On a long-term level, Kounde remains under contract until 2030 after his recent renewal, and while Barcelona continue to value his quality highly, the current financial context of the club means every strong market opportunity is likely to be assessed.

Meanwhile, his position in the French national team is also somewhat fragile, as he would have to compete with Malo Gusto for a starting spot in the upcoming World Cup.

Hopefully, Jules Kounde will get over this difficult period and return back to become an important player, both for Barcelona and France, going forward.