Barcelona defender out of Osasuna clash due to suspension | OneFootball

FC Barcelona will have to make do without one of their mainstays, Jules Kounde, for their next La Liga game against CA Osasuna.

The French international started today’s clash against Getafe at Coliseum Alfonso Perez at right-back.

However, just 20 minutes into the contest, the defender was booked by the referee for a poor foul on Mauro Arambarri after a poor touch had put him under pressure.

The yellow card meant that Kounde now has five yellow cards for the season in La Liga, earning him an automatic one-match suspension for accumulation of cards.

As such, Barcelona will have to make do without the former Sevilla ace when they take on Osasuna next Sunday away at El Sadar.

Who will replace Kounde?

Eric Garcia could replace Kounde vs Osasuna. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While Kounde’s unavailability will come as a blow, Hansi Flick has enough options at his disposal to cover for his absence.

Indeed, Eric Garcia, who missed today’s game against Getafe due to suspension, will be available for the trip to Pamplona and can be a direct replacement for Kounde in the right-back slot.

The Barcelona manager could also opt to start Ronald Araujo in the position, having done so on a few occasions this season.

There is also the option of moving Joao Cancelo to his natural right-back slot and bringing Alejandro Balde into the lineup on the left side of the defence.

Lastly, academy graduate Xavi Espart, who has already made his first-team debut for Barcelona this term, could also be an option to fill the void created by Kounde’s absence.