Barcelona's coach Hansi Flick is testing Jules Kounde as a center-back in preparation for a Champions League match against Atletico Madrid. Kounde was paired with Gerard Martin during a closed-door training session.
Jules Kounde centre-back of Barcelona and France celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between FC Barcelona and Eintracht Frankfurt at Spotify Camp Nou on December 9, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has been trialling using Jules Kounde in the heart of defence ahead of tonight’s big game against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
According to Mundo Deportivo, in a closed-door session in the Spanish capital, Flick partnered Kounde with Gerard Martin as his two central defenders.
Flick also used Ronald Araujo at right-back, with Joao Cancelo on the opposite flank. Eric Garcia and Pedri were Flick’s midfield two ahead of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski.
The Barcelona boss will have to make changes to his team against Atletico as Pau Cubarsi is suspended. Kounde is therefore an option to play at center-back along with Araujo and Eric Garcia.
While Kounde’s preferred position is in central defence, he has been mainly used at right-back since moving to Barcelona.
So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:
Should Jules Kounde revert back to center-back at Barcelona?
Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!
Jules Kounde is being considered for center-back to strengthen Barcelona's defense ahead of an important Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.
Gerard Martin partnered with Jules Kounde in the central defense during a closed-door training session.
Hansi Flick's defensive lineup includes Kounde and Gerard Martin as central defenders, with Ronald Araujo at right-back and Joao Cancelo on the left flank.
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