According to Ramon Salmurri on Catalunya Radio, Barcelona are working towards the possibility of including Jules Kounde in their squad for Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid, offering Hansi Flick a potential boost amid mounting defensive concerns.
The French defender has been recovering from a left ankle sprain sustained against Real Betis and missed Barcelona’s Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
His availability will depend on how he progresses over the coming days.
Barcelona wait on Kounde’s recovery ahead of Sunday’s clash
Kounde’s potential return would be a timely boost for Barcelona, who have been dealing with several defensive absences in the build-up to one of their biggest fixtures of the season.
The defender suffered the ankle injury during the 5-2 victory over Real Betis and was subsequently ruled out of the trip to face PSG.
Kounde missed the trip to PSG. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Barça had already confirmed that his participation against Real Madrid would depend on his recovery.
The club are now considering the possibility of having Kounde available for the Clasico, although making the squad would not necessarily mean he is ready to start.
Barcelona will need to assess his fitness before deciding whether he can contribute against their rivals.
Hansi Flick faces defensive selection questions
Barcelona’s defensive options have been stretched by injuries, with Eric Garcia expected to miss several weeks because of a thigh problem.
Kounde’s absence against PSG further limited Flick’s choices, making his potential return for the Clasico at Camp Nou particularly relevant.
Kounde’s return will be a welcome boost. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
The Barcelona coach must weigh the importance of having an experienced defender available against the risk of rushing him back before he has fully recovered.
Even a place on the bench would give Flick another option if the match situation demanded a change.
Barcelona can do with Kounde’s experience and versatility against Real Madrid this Sunday, but the club should avoid taking a gamble with an incompletely recovered player.
If he is fit enough to contribute, his return would strengthen Flick’s options. If not, the La Liga champions must trust the alternatives rather than risk turning a short-term absence into a longer one.