Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has expressed his disappointment after suffering a hamstring injury during his side’s 3-3 draw with Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg.
Kounde, who is of Beninese descent, was forced off in the match and has since been ruled out of the second leg in Milan as well as the upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid.
The setback comes at a crucial time in the season, with Barcelona competing on multiple fronts.
The French international took to social media to share his frustration over the timing of the injury.
“I’m very disappointed to get injured at this point in the season, when everything is at stake… but sometimes you can’t control everything,” he wrote.
Despite being sidelined, Kounde remains confident in his teammates’ ability to deliver in his absence.
“Full confidence that this team will get the job done no matter who’s on the pitch. Thank you all for your support, it means a lot,” he added.
Barcelona will now have to rely on other defensive options as they prepare for two decisive matches that could define their season.
Kounde’s absence will be a blow, but the team is expected to continue pushing for success both domestically and in Europe.