FC Barcelona has taken a decisive step to secure its defense for the coming years. Jules Koundé has renewed his contract until 2030, in a move that strengthens the team's stability and sends a clear message to the market. Hansi Flick's direct intervention has been crucial in closing a deal that wasn't guaranteed a few months ago.
The German coach has played a key role in convincing the French international. Hansi Flick has conveyed his absolute trust and a leading role in his system. Koundé, who at one point considered leaving due to the strain of playing outside his natural position, will stay. The club has decided to keep him as a defensive pillar in the new culé project.
This renewal comes at a time when Barça still doesn't have a natural replacement for Koundé. The Frenchman remains irreplaceable at the heart of the backline and also as a right-back when the situation requires it, as in the case of Fort, who seemed to be an alternative. The academy player hasn't yet reached the level required by the elite to take on that responsibility on a regular basis.
Flick wants him to stay and renew
This forces Hansi Flickto keep trusting Koundé as a versatile piece, something the coach values, but which also means a great strain for the player. Barça has decided to get ahead of possible temptations from other clubs. With the new contract, Koundé's release clause is kept at prohibitive figures (cifras prohibitivas) and the club ensures that his performance will continue.
A move that, in terms of sports planning, is total protection. Koundé has shown great solidity in recent months, leading the defense in key matches and adapting to Flick's tactical demands. For many, his continuity is a strategic victory that prevents a bigger problem in an increasingly inflated transfer market.
The captain without an armband
Hansi Flick thus scores one of his first major triumphs off the field. Convincing Koundé not only ensures immediate performance, but also long-term stability. The German knows that having a solid defense is the foundation of any winning project and has done everything possible to retain his trusted man.
The message to the rest of the squad and the fans is clear: Barça wants to build on solid foundations. With Jules Koundé tied down until 2030, the blaugrana backline gains security, authority, and a silent leader who has found in Flick the coach he needed to keep believing in this project. Meanwhile, the blaugrana coach continues to look at the market to see if a player arrives who can replace Héctor Fort.