Barcelona is gearing up for one of its most pivotal matches of the season as they welcome Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final. The Catalan giants aim to capitalize on the momentum generated by their recent Copa del Rey triumph, where they edged out fierce rivals Real Madrid in a dramatic El Clásico clash.
This victory has reignited hopes among fans and players alike of reaching a Champions League final — a stage Barcelona has not graced in over a decade.
However, despite the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the club’s recent achievements, reports from the Spanish outlet El Nacional suggest that there’s a growing sense of unease within the Barcelona dressing room.
This concern stems from increasing interest from English side Arsenal in signing French defender Jules Koundé. Koundé has not only become a cornerstone of Hansi Flick’s tactical system but is also highly respected among his teammates for his leadership qualities and influence in the locker room.
Particularly worried about the potential departure is young sensation Lamine Yamal, who has gone as far as warning that he may refuse to renew his contract should Koundé be sold. Other key players like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong are reportedly aligned with Yamal’s stance, viewing Koundé as essential to maintaining the balance and competitive edge of the squad.
Since joining Barcelona from Sevilla, Koundé has established himself as one of the world’s top right-backs, contributing significantly in both defense and attack. Beyond his on-field capabilities, his professionalism, dedication to the club’s long-term project, and positive influence on younger players have made him an indispensable figure at Camp Nou. Losing him at such a critical time would not only weaken the defense but could also disrupt the team’s unity and morale.
Recognizing the potential risk of losing a player of Koundé’s caliber, Barcelona’s sporting directors have already initiated efforts to secure his future, proposing a contract extension until 2030 that includes a salary adjustment reflecting his importance to the club.
Encouragingly for Barcelona, Koundé himself feels valued and content within the team, appreciating both the coaching staff’s confidence in him and the camaraderie shared with his teammates.
Club president Joan Laporta is keenly aware of the urgency of the situation and is pushing to finalize a deal before the summer transfer window opens.
Successfully retaining Koundé would signal Barcelona’s intent to build a squad capable of reclaiming its place among Europe’s elite, while also reassuring anxious players like Yamal about the club’s ambitions.
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