Injured Barcelona star ruled out of Spain vs France Nations League semi-final | OneFootball

FC Barcelona were dealt a harsh blow during their Champions League semi-final clash when Jules Kounde was forced off with an untimely injury in the first half of the first leg. Until that moment, the French defender had been one of Hansi Flick’s most consistent and reliable performers, anchoring the backline with unwavering dependability.

Kounde had enjoyed a brilliant campaign, where he was one player who almost started every single game. The 26-year-old’s fitness ensured that he was a player who hardly needed rotation, but injury struck at the worst time possible.

As expected, Kounde has not played a game for Barcelona since, but the expectation was that he would be ready for the Nations League. However, as per Mundo Deportivo, the Frenchman has been left out of the France squad after failing to recover from the issue.

Jules Kounde has been brilliant this season

Kounde has been brilliant this season. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The ex-Sevilla centre-back has successfully transitioned into a right-back in recent seasons, and in the current season under Hansi Flick, the Frenchman took a step forward in the right direction, adding tools to his attacking game.

For France, Kounde has operated as a right-back for a long time. He will be a huge miss in a competition that Les Blues will be looking to win. However, if there is one thing you can say, it is that there is no dearth of options.

Meanwhile, in the absence of the Frenchman, Barcelona discovered Eric Garcia, who has showcased brilliant quality in the right-back position. Such has been the quality of displays that the Spaniard might be earmarked as the backup going forward.

Backup needed?

Jules Kounde’s season in numbers. (Source: DataMB)

Barcelona and Hansi Flick will be eager to have Jules Kounde back at full strength in time for pre-season, knowing how vital his presence is across a long campaign. While his absence from the Nations League is a blow for France, it may offer the defender crucial recovery time.

Whether Barcelona opt to reinforce the position or continue developing talents like Eric Garcia and Hector Fort, the road ahead looks well-covered, but Kounde’s return will remain a top priority.