Barcelona star could revert to his old position after ten months against Real Sociedad

Barcelona will look to enter the third international break of the season on a positive note as they take on Real Sociedad on Sunday.

However, heading into this crucial game, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick will have prepare without the services of Pau Cubarsi.

The youngster picked up a nasty blow this midweek and required up to ten stitches on his cheeks. Although the player was determined to play against Sociedad, the club did not want to risk it.

Kounde to return to centre-back?

Cubarsi’s absence could force Flick to make changes in the defensive line, especially with Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia also injured.

But with the young defender likely to be rested, Flick could consider the possibility of deploying Jules Kounde back in his familiar right-back position, reports SPORT.

Will Kounde return to centre-back position against Sociedad? (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

Kounde has historically preferred to play in the centre-back position for the better part of his Barcelona career.

But the Frenchman hasn’t played in that position since January 2024. Appearing at centre-back once again, therefore, could be a novel experience of sorts, as far as the Frenchman is concerned.

It must be noted that Flick also has the option of deploying Sergi Dominguez at centre-back, alongside Inigo. In this case, Kounde would retain his position at right-back.

However, playing Dominguez at centre-back could be risky due to his lack of experience. Kounde, to that end, could be a more qualified replacement for Cubarsi, especially given the way he has tuned himself into Flick’s offside trap setup.

Should Kounde starts in central defence, Flick will have to start with Hector Fort at right-back.

Fort was the starter in the Catalan derby this past weekend and there is no reason why he cannot hold his own against Sociedad this weekend.