Barcelona concern over Jules Kounde’s form

Barcelona is increasingly concerned about Jules Kounde’s recent dip in form after a difficult season marked by inconsistency and injury setbacks.

According to reports in Spain, club figures were particularly disappointed with his performance in the 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first-leg defeat to Atletico Madrid, where he struggled defensively on the right flank. Jules Kounde was seen giving Atletico’s wide players too much room to cross, raising fresh doubts about his reliability in big European nights.

The 26-year-old’s level contrasts sharply with last season, when he was regarded as one of Barcelona’s most dependable performers and ended the campaign on a high by scoring in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid.

This term, however, a hamstring injury and patchy displays have disrupted his rhythm, and the Atletico clash was his first start in over a month. As a result, there is growing speculation that Barcelona could listen to offers for Kounde in the summer, as the club weigh up whether he still fits into their long-term defensive plans.