FC Barcelona: Jules Koundé is already playing very big

More than a defeat. This weekend, FC Barcelona lost heavily to Real Madrid in the final of the King’s Super Cup played in Saudi Arabia. Indeed, the Culés were beaten 4 to 1 by the vastly superior Merengues. After this rout, Xavi was singled out. Increasingly threatened for some, the Spanish technician can count on the support of its president Joan Laporta. On the other hand, the same cannot be said of Deco. According to Catalan media, the Blaugrana sports director is pushing behind the scenes for Rafa Marquez.

The Spanish press expects more from Koundé

For the moment, the Camp Nou residents will continue with the former midfielder. But Xavi is not the one and only responsible for the defeat and more generally for the bad period experienced by his team. The Iberian press does not hesitate to point out certain elements of the group. This is the case of Sport which mentions the name of Jules Koundé. Arriving in Catalonia in 2022 after a successful stint with Sevilla, the footballer, who was courted by Chelsea, was convinced by Xavi’s speech and desire to recruit him.

But everything didn’t always go as he hoped at Barcelona during his first season which was okay overall. Then, the versatile defender, capable of playing in the center as well as as a right back, wanted to be fixed in one position: that of central defender. He even discussed it with Xavi this summer. It was at that time that several rumors surfaced of his possible desires elsewhere. But the player under contract until 2027 remained. This season, he played 21 matches in all competitions, including 19 as a starter.

He will have to show a better face against the competition

Time to score 1 goal and deliver 1 assist. But his performances, sometimes irregular, are not unanimous. This Wednesday, Sport indicates that he is one of the elements from which we expected more and who generally disappointed against Madrid. He made two big errors on two opposing goals. Its positioning was particularly singled out. Sport expresses his concern about the Frenchman, who has lost his serenity and is showing himself to be particularly slow. The media adds that he must regain the trust of his partners and his coach, who also uses him on the right, particularly in the absence of João Cancelo.

In the middle, he will have to be much better. Sport also indicates that the threat of Andreas Christensen, who could be preferred to him, hovers over his head. But it is not the only one. In recent days, the name of Matthijs de Ligt has come up repeatedly. It would rather be for this summer, especially since he is currently injured. But Thomas Tuchel does not have good relations with the Dutchman, who has always been appreciated at Barça. Jules Koundé is therefore playing big at FC Barcelona, ​​where Xavi will no longer give anyone a gift to help the club get back on its feet and save its skin. The former Bordeaux player, recently cited among the undesirable players, has been warned!