Jules Koundé has become an indispensable piece for FC Barcelona since Hansi Flick's arrival. The French defender has reached an extremely high level during this past season, being key in several areas. His versatility, commitment, and consistency place him among the most valued players by the new coaching staff.
Flick has found in him a footballer who can adapt to all kinds of contexts without losing solidity. He has used him as a center-back in a back four, as an attacking right-back, and even in a more conservative role. In all his versions, Koundé has replied with the same reliability that made him shine at Sevilla.
Throughout the season, he has played 53 official matches, in which he has scored 4 goals and provided 8 assists. These statistics are impressive considering his primarily defensive role. Beyond the numbers, what stands out about him is his reading of the game, positioning, and clean ball distribution.
An untouchable for Flick and for the club
Barça's sporting management has made it clear that Koundé is non-transferable unless a completely exorbitant offer arrives. Deco and Laporta have agreed that he must be one of the pillars on which to build the new cycle. That's why they're already working on improving and extending his contract, which currently ends in June 2027.
The club's goal is to secure him until 2031 and make him one of the future captains in the locker room. Flick has also been very clear internally: he doesn't want to lose him under any circumstances. He knows he's one of the few players capable of supporting the team even in the most demanding scenarios.
Moreover, his commitment to the club has been total since day one. Despite rumors and past rotations, he has never raised his voice. Now, with the full trust of the coaching staff, Koundé is preparing to start the season as the absolute leader of the blaugrana defense.
A familiar face wants him at all costs
In recent weeks, the player's entourage has received several calls from abroad inquiring about his situation. Some clubs asked about conditions, but nothing more. However, one of them has been especially persistent, with a very tempting sporting proposal.
The player himself was informed of this persistence, although his response was clear: he isn't considering leaving Barça. He feels comfortable, supported, and with a leading role he doesn't want to lose. The club has also stopped any kind of negotiation without even sitting down to listen to conditions.
The persistence has come from a bench well known to Culers. A coach who knows the blaugrana home very well and is looking to strengthen its defense with a profile like Koundé's. The proposal from his club would exceed €60 million, but even so, it has been firmly rejected.
He wanted him for his new project
The coach who has requested his signing is none other than Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's manager. The Santpedor native considers Koundé an ideal reinforcement due to his tactical intelligence and technical ability. However, Barça has been firm and the player hasn't shown the slightest interest.
At Camp Nou, they value not only his sporting level but also his quiet leadership in the locker room. Flick wants him as the foundation of his project and the club wants to reward him with a substantial contract improvement. Guardiola will have to look for other options, because Koundé isn't moving.
Meanwhile, the Frenchman is already preparing for the start of the new season with his mind set on the team's objectives. His intention is to keep growing, establish himself as a European defensive reference, and help Barça regain its place among the elite. City wants him, but Barça needs him.