FC Barcelona: tensions rise between Flick and Koundé, possible exit on the cards for the defender

Jules Koundéno longer wants to play at right-back, while several English clubs are reportedly prepared to invest between €60 and €70 million to sign him.

Tensions appear to be brewing between Jules Koundé and Hansi Flick at FC Barcelona. According to information from Juan Jesús Capdevila, relayed exclusively, the French defender has once again made it clear to his manager that he wants to play as a centre-back. Meanwhile, multiple Premier League clubs are said to be interested and are willing to table offers in the €60–70 million range to secure his services.

Koundé determined to return to the centre

The debate over Koundé’s position is nothing new. Having been deployed mainly as a right-back since his arrival at Barça, the Frenchman is eager to reclaim his natural centre-back role. He reportedly voiced this desire to Flick before the World Cup, and has reiterated it several times since.

These discussions have even led to a heated exchange between the two. According to the same source, Flick reminded his player that he must give his all, regardless of the position assigned to him.

Koundé has also been unsettled by Barça’s plans to recruit centre-backs such as Aymeric Laporte or Cristian Romero. The Frenchman believes he has already proven himself in the centre and does not understand why the club is looking to strengthen that area instead of entrusting him with greater responsibility in that role.

A significant loss for Barça

Letting Koundé go would not be without sporting consequences for FC Barcelona. The Frenchman has established himself as a reliable right-back, while retaining the ability to slot into the centre of defence. His departure would force the club to recruit a new right-back and further bolster the centre-back position, especially if Barça continues its pursuit of players like Aymeric Laporte or Cristian Romero. The situation could also hinge on Hansi Flick’s stance: by giving Koundé more responsibility in the centre, the manager could help ease tensions and prevent Barça from losing a player who has become integral to their setup.

Premier League clubs circling

This scenario could pave the way for a transfer. Koundé and his entourage are reportedly seriously considering a return to the Premier League, where several clubs are ready to guarantee him a central defensive role.

The English interest appears to be concrete. Premier League sides are said to be preparing offers in the €60–70 million bracket. According to reports, Barça now needs to sit down with the player to clarify his position before deciding on a response to these potential bids.

Uncertain future in Barcelona

Since arriving from Sevilla FC in 2022, Koundé has progressively established himself as a key figure for Barça. His versatility has allowed him to settle in at right-back, even though his centre-back credentials remain a core part of his identity.

For now, nothing is set in stone regarding his departure. But between his personal ambitions, Barça’s choices at centre-back, and the growing interest from English clubs, Jules Koundé’s future in Catalonia is more uncertain than ever.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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