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1 month ago
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Barcelona have struggled at right-back for many years, arguably since Dani Alves’ first departure in 2016.
However, those concerns are no longer relevant thanks to Jules Kounde, who has assumed that role for the last three seasons in La Liga.
Koundé was signed by Xavi Hernandez as a central defender, but due to a lack of options at right-back, he was tasked with playing in that position during the 2022-23 season. He has done so successfully within a very solid Barcelona defence that has conceded few goals in La Liga.
Koundé in great shape
Despite this, Kounde has expressed his desire to return to a central role, although apart from a few games at the start of last season, he has never done so. Under Hansi Flick, he continues to play at right-back, and he has excelled at it. The France international now considers himself a natural in the position, as he told the media on Tuesday (via MD).
“I think there was also a misunderstanding from outsiders about what the coach could ask of me and also from the player that I was. I’m not a right-back by training. Sometimes you can put up barriers. It’s no secret, it’s a position that took me a while to get used to, but I was always confident that with work I would get there. It wasn’t a natural position for me and, even though I worked hard, it was something that was going to take time.” The Frenchman has been in fantastic form for club and country over the last 12 months in particular.
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
