Barcelona is gearing up for a crucial Champions League Round of 16 match against Benfica, set to take place in Lisbon tomorrow. As the Catalan club prepares for this vital encounter, they maintain their lead in La Liga with 57 points after 26 matches.
They hold a narrow one-point advantage over Atletico Madrid in second place and are three points ahead of their arch-rival, Real Madrid, who sit in third.
Meanwhile, tensions are rising within the club as head coach Hansi Flick grows increasingly frustrated with French defender Jules Kounde. According to reports from the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Flick has become dissatisfied with Kounde’s performances at right-back.
Despite his solid contributions, lapses in concentration have repeatedly cost Barcelona important points. One notable instance occurred in the Copa del Rey match against Atletico Madrid, which ended in a dramatic 4-4 draw. Kounde’s failure to prevent a crucial goal in the closing moments of the game left Flick visibly upset.
Kounde’s struggles are not a recent development but rather a recurring issue throughout the season. His defensive mistakes have led to goals for opponents, and his attitude off the field has also raised concerns. Reports from within the dressing room indicate that the defender has been substituted multiple times due to his tardiness in attending technical meetings, something that has not gone unnoticed by Flick.
As a result, the German coach has urged Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, to secure a world-class right-back. Flick wants a player who can consistently perform at a high level, contribute defensively, and offer attacking support. Several names have emerged as potential targets:
1. Joshua Kimmich – Having worked with Flick at Bayern Munich, Kimmich is a versatile player who can operate both as a right-back and a midfielder. His contract with Bayern expires in 2025, which could make negotiations more feasible for Barcelona.
2. Reece James – Despite struggling with injuries, James remains among the top right-backs in world football. His strength, technique, and leadership qualities make him an attractive option, but Chelsea’s high asking price could pose a challenge.
3. Andrei Ratiu – The Romanian defender, who has impressed in La Liga, presents a more budget-friendly alternative. His defensive reliability and ability to push forward make him a promising candidate.
While Kounde still has the club’s support, Flick’s dissatisfaction could jeopardize his role as a starter. The Frenchman has previously expressed his preference for playing as a centre-back, and if Barcelona secures a new right-back, he may have to reconsider his future with the team.
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