Jules Kounde - Soccer News, Rumors, & Updates

Ruled out against Atletico Madrid Kounde remains sidelined with a left ankle sprain and has been ruled out for Sunday's La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid after failing to return to team training Friday, accordi...

Impact Kounde's recovery continues to take longer than initially anticipated, with the French defender now approaching three weeks on the sidelines after suffering the injury against Betis on Oct. 17. He has already missed four consecutive matches against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Alaves and Aston Villa, despite early expectations that he would only be unavailable for approximately one week. Persistent discomfort in his left ankle has complicated his recovery, preventing him from progressing beyond limited individual exercises. His continued absence from group training Friday confirms that he will not be ready for Sunday's important encounter, leaving coach Hansi Flick without one of his preferred right-back once again. Brian Farinas is expected to retain his starting position, while Eric Garcia (thigh) and Andreas Christensen (quadriceps) could return to provide additional defensive options. With the November international break approaching, Kounde will have additional time to recover before Barcelona's next competitive fixture.

4 DAYS AGO • ROTOWIRE

Unlikely to return before break Kounde is unlikely to return before the November international break as his recovery from a left ankle sprain continues to take longer than expected, leaving him doubtful for Sunda...

Impact Kounde has remained sidelined since suffering the injury against Betis on Oct. 17, missing four consecutive matches against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Alaves and Aston Villa. Initially expected to recover within approximately one week, the French defender has experienced persistent discomfort, including difficulty wearing his football boots when attempting to resume training. Although he recently returned to limited individual exercises, he has yet to rejoin full team training, and coach Hansi Flick is increasingly considering a return after the international break. No additional injury or structural complication has been reported, but Barcelona remains cautious about accelerating his recovery and risking a setback. Brian Farinas remains an alternative at right-back, with Kounde potentially facing additional competition for playing time once fully fit.

4 DAYS AGO • ROTOWIRE

Training on sidelines Wednesday Kounde returned to limited practice apart from the group during Wednesday's training session and has only a slim chance of featuring Sunday against Atletico, Ferran Correas of Spor...

Impact Kounde is not completely ruled out, but the likeliest scenario for his return remains after the international break. The defender will look to continue increasing his workloads in upcoming days while Brian Farinas and Eric Garcia (thigh) contend for the right-back spot, given that Xavi Espart (ankle) is still unavailable. While the Frenchman may initially serve as a substitute once he's fully fit, he'll eventually feature as a two-way asset in the defensive rotation.

5 DAYS AGO • ROTOWIRE

Won't return before break Kounde (ankle) isn't expected back until after the November international break, according to manager Hansi Flick. "I hope [they] can be available after the international break."

Impact Kounde has been working his way back from an ankle injury that has kept him out of Barca's last three matches, and if Flick's timeline holds, he'd miss five games in a row before he can return after the break. Kounde has alternated on the right side of Barcelona's defense. In the 11 games he's been available for Barcelona, he's started four, coming off the bench in another four and been an unused sub in the other three.

NOVEMBER 2 • ROTOWIRE

Ruled out against Aston Villa Kounde (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Aston Villa after continuing to train separately from the group Monday, according to Alfredo Martinez...

Impact Kounde remains sidelined by an ankle injury that has prevented him from returning to full team training ahead of Barcelona's European encounter. The French defender was limited to gym work Sunday and continued his individual recovery program Monday, leaving him without sufficient preparation to feature against Aston Villa. His absence adds to Barcelona's defensive concerns, with Eric Garcia (thigh) also ruled out of Tuesday's fixture. Brian Farinas could consequently be considered for a starting role at right-back, although Joao Cancelo provides another option on that flank. Kounde will now focus on recovering ahead of Barcelona's upcoming La Liga fixtures, with no definitive timetable established for his return to competitive action.

NOVEMBER 2 • ROTOWIRE

Still in gym, doubtful for Tuesday Kounde (ankle) is still only working in the gym and appears to be doubtful for Tuesday's match against Aston Villa, according to Javier Miguel of AS Diario

Impact Kounde is still recovering from an ankle injury, and his option to play this coming week appears to be slim, as he has yet to take the field for training with his teammates. He would only train in the gym Sunday, not encouraging for the defender. In most cases, you will not be able to count on the right-back, and he is unlikely to start even if he is fit, leaving Brian Farinas as the possible starter at right-back due to the numerous injuries.

NOVEMBER 1 • ROTOWIRE

Absent from squad against Alaves Kounde has been left out of Barcelona's matchday squad for Saturday's La Liga encounter against Alaves after failing to recover from an ongoing ankle injury, the club posted.

Impact Kounde remains sidelined after missing Friday's final team training session, with his ankle discomfort continuing to prevent him from returning to competitive action. The French defender had initially shown encouraging signs in his recovery, but his absence from Saturday's squad confirms that he still requires additional time before being considered for selection. Barcelona are also dealing with defensive concerns involving Eric Garcia (thigh) and Xavi Espart (ankle), leaving coach Hansi Flick with limited alternatives across the backline. Joao Cancelo is expected to cover the right-back position, while Alex Balde remains an option on the opposite flank. Brian Farinas could also receive additional playing time, with Kounde's availability for the upcoming UCL clash against Aston Villa still uncertain.

OCTOBER 31 • ROTOWIRE

Still absent ahead of Alaves clash Kounde did not participate in Friday's team training session and is expected to miss Saturday's La Liga matchup against Alaves due to ongoing ankle discomfort, according to Victor...

Impact Kounde continues to struggle with an ankle issue that has prevented him from returning to full training despite earlier optimism surrounding his recovery. The French defender has now missed consecutive sessions ahead of Saturday's encounter, making his involvement increasingly unlikely. His potential absence would further limit Barcelona's defensive depth, with Eric Garcia (thigh) also unavailable for training and Xavi Espart (ankle) dealing with a fitness concern. Joao Cancelo is positioned to retain the right-back role, while Alex Balde remains an option on the opposite flank. Kounde's recovery will continue to be monitored ahead of the upcoming UCL fixture against Aston Villa.

OCTOBER 30 • ROTOWIRE

Impact Kounde has yet to resume training with his teammates after missing Wednesday's session, raising further concerns about his availability against Alaves. The French defender had initially been expected to recover in time for Saturday's encounter, but his ankle continues to cause discomfort, reducing his chances of returning this weekend. With limited time remaining before the match, Kounde would need to make significant progress to be considered for selection. His absence would leave Barcelona without one of its regular defensive options, with his recovery likely to be reassessed ahead of the upcoming Champions League fixture against Aston Villa.

OCTOBER 29 • ROTOWIRE

Yet to join team training Kounde (ankle) now appears to be doubtful for Saturday's match against Alaves after failing to train Wednesday, according to Jose Carrasco.

Impact Kounde was unable to take the field for training Wednesday with the rest of his teammates, as the defender is still dealing with some discomfort in his ankle and the club doesn't want to risk further injury. That said, he now appears to be doubtful for Saturday's match despite his expected return to face Alaves. If he were to play, he would now need a big boost and would likely need to train the rest of the week, leaving a slim chance of that possibility. Even if he were to make the team sheet, it does not appear he is in shape for a starting role.

OCTOBER 28 • ROTOWIRE

Barcelona tries to regroup after consecutive defeats in Champions League and Spanish league clasico

Barcelona cruised early on in the season, winning with ease both in the Champions League and the Spanish league

OCTOBER 26 • Associated Press

Could return vs. Alaves Kounde (ankle) could be an option for Saturday's game against Alaves, according to Didac Peyret of SPORT.

Impact Manager Hansi Flick mentioned that Kounde was trending in the right direction after Sunday's loss to Real Madrid in El Clasico. If he doesn't suffer any setbacks in the coming days, Kounde could be an option to face Alaves since the defensive line needs depth and healthy players following the recent rash of injuries. A clearer picture will emerge when Barcelona resume training Wednesday.

OCTOBER 26 • ROTOWIRE

Working toward full fitness Kounde (ankle) may complete his rehabilitation in the next few weeks, with coach Hansi Flick mentioning him after Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid "Eric looks really good, and...

Impact Kounde's status remains in doubt for next weekend's meeting with Alaves as he attempts to be match fit, if not in that game, for the subsequent matches against Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid in UCL and La Liga action, respectively. The defender hasn't played since Oct. 17, and his issue adds to the uncertainty on a right-back rotation that could also be without Eric Garcia (thigh) and Xavi Espart (ankle). While the French international seems to be close to a being available, his playing time may be managed in the short term until he has completed several training sessions with the squad.

OCTOBER 25 • ROTOWIRE

Mourinho – 'I am not stupid' – keeps game plan under wraps for Madrid's trip to Barcelona

Jose Mourinho has employed a bit of humor while fending off attempts by the media to reveal his strategy for Real Madrid’s visit to Barcelona in the clasico

OCTOBER 24 • Associated Press

Ruled out for El Clasico Kounde has been ruled out for Sunday's La Liga clash against Real Madrid as he continues recovering from a left ankle sprain, according to Alfredo Martinez of Onda Cero Radio.

Impact Kounde will miss his second consecutive match after failing to recover from the left ankle sprain he sustained during Barcelona's 5-2 victory over Real Betis. The French defender played the full 90 minutes against Betis, providing an assist for Lamine Yamal, but subsequently experienced discomfort that required medical examinations. He missed Tuesday's Champions League encounter against Paris Saint-Germain and remained limited to gym-based rehabilitation Friday and Saturday, leaving him without sufficient time to recover for Sunday's El Clasico. His absence further reduces Barcelona's defensive options, particularly with Eric Garcia (thigh) also sidelined. Joao Cancelo should remain the leading candidate to start at right-back against Real Madrid, while Kounde continues working toward regaining full fitness. No definitive timetable has been established for his return to competitive action.

OCTOBER 24 • ROTOWIRE

Unlikely to feature in El Clasico Kounde remains limited to gym work Friday as he continues recovering from a left ankle sprain and is considered highly unlikely to feature in Sunday's La Liga clash against Real Ma...

Impact Kounde is running out of time to recover ahead of Sunday's El Clasico after failing to resume outdoor training following the ankle injury he sustained during Saturday's 5-2 victory over Real Betis. The French defender completed the full 90 minutes against Betis, providing an assist for Lamine Yamal, but experienced discomfort afterward, with medical examinations confirming a left ankle sprain. He subsequently missed Tuesday's Champions League encounter against Paris Saint-Germain and remains restricted to gym-based rehabilitation, making his involvement against Real Madrid extremely unlikely. Although Barcelona have yet to officially rule him out, his continued absence from team training suggests he will need additional recovery time before returning to competitive action. Kounde has primarily occupied a rotational role this season, but his potential absence further limits Barcelona's defensive options, particularly with Eric Garcia (thigh) also sidelined. Joao Cancelo could continue to benefit from additional opportunities at right-back while Kounde works toward regaining full fitness.

OCTOBER 23 • ROTOWIRE

Out against PSG with ankle sprain Kounde (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain after suffering a left ankle sprain during Saturday's 5-2 victory over Real Betis...

Impact Kounde completed the full 90 minutes against Real Betis, providing an assist for Lamine Yamal while recording two tackles, one won. However, the French defender experienced discomfort following the match and was subsequently spotted limping upon Barcelona's return. Medical examinations confirmed a left ankle sprain, ruling him out of Tuesday's Champions League encounter against PSG. His availability for Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid will depend on his recovery over the coming days. Having primarily occupied a reserve role this season, Kounde's absence further reduces Barcelona's defensive depth, particularly with Eric Garcia also sidelined for three to four weeks. Joao Cancelo could consequently see additional opportunities at right-back.

OCTOBER 18 • ROTOWIRE

Doubtful for PSG clash Kounde (undisclosed) was spotted limping noticeably upon Barcelona's return Sunday after picking up a knock during Saturday's 5-2 victory over Real Betis, according to El Chiringui...

Impact Kounde completed the full 90 minutes against Real Betis, providing an assist for Lamine Yamal while recording two tackles, one won. However, the French defender reportedly experienced discomfort following the match and was subsequently seen limping. The defender will undergo medical examinations to determine his availability for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain. Eric Garcia and Gerard Martin are also dealing with physical issues, potentially limiting Barcelona's defensive options. Kounde has primarily occupied a reserve role this season, although his potential absence would further reduce the team's defensive depth ahead of the European encounter.

OCTOBER 18 • ROTOWIRE

Scores in win over Getafe Kounde scored one goal to go with two shots (two on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 3-0 victory over Getafe.

Impact Kounde closed out the scoring with a goal in the second half after a setup from Lamine Yamal. Kounde has been alternating at right-back, but even if he plays regularly, he should earn most of his value from clean sheets and defensive stats. He's not expected to be a regular scoring option moving forward.

OCTOBER 12 • ROTOWIRE

Anthony Gordon scores first goal for Barcelona as leader equals best start in La Liga

England forward Anthony Gordon has scored his first goal for Barcelona as the Spanish league leader eased to a 3-0 win over Getafe and equaled its best start ever in La Liga

OCTOBER 10 • Associated Press

Role in decline Kounde has fallen behind Eric Garcia in the pecking order at right back for Barcelona, limited to a late substitute cameos with only two starts this campaign, in the Champions Leag...

Impact Kounde has lost his grip on the starting right back job to Eric Garcia through the first seven matches of 2026/27 in La Liga, appearing mostly as a substitute and drawing criticism for a positioning error that led to a goal in his lone league start against Rayo Vallecano. His long-term role remains unsettled for now as he also remained on the bench in the last three games of the Blaugranas. Kounde will look to find some fresh air with France under new coach Zinedine Zidane.

SEPTEMBER 24 • ROTOWIRE

Back in training as scheduled Kounde returned to training at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper Tuesday, as scheduled, according to Angel Perez of Mundo Deportivo.

Impact Kounde made 30 LaLiga appearances last season, contributing one goal and three assists as a near ever present in Barcelona's title winning back line, and had decent outings for France at the World Cup before the tournament ended in the semifinal loss to Spain. He will undergo his medical as usual before gradually building up to full training intensity, though reports suggest he could still leave the club this summer, rising some doubts about his role heading into the 2026/27 season.

AUGUST 11 • ROTOWIRE

Premier League club preparing £56 million bid to sign Barcelona defender Jules Kounde: Reports Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in lodging a £56 million bid to snap up Barcelona defender Jules Kounde in the ongoing summer transfer window.

JULY 29 • SPORTSKEEDA.COM

Barcelona star could be used in different position if key defender Ronald Araujo leaves the club: Reports Barcelona star Jules Kounde could reportedly be deployed as a centre-back if Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo departs the club.

JULY 26 • SPORTSKEEDA.COM

Unimpressive against Spain Kounde generated three crosses (one accurate) and one tackle in Tuesday's 2-0 loss against Spain.

Impact Kounde failed to meet his standards in both attacking and defensive aspects during a difficult semi-finals matchup. He also failed to create a scoring chance for the third consecutive contest while matching his average of one tackle per game in that span. In any case, Kounde has been a regular member of France's back line and made a consistent impact for most of the competition.

JULY 14 • ROTOWIRE

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Barcelona tries to regroup after consecutive defeats in Champions League and Spanish league clasico

Mourinho – 'I am not stupid' – keeps game plan under wraps for Madrid's trip to Barcelona

Anthony Gordon scores first goal for Barcelona as leader equals best start in La Liga