The lack of consistency and effectiveness in Jules Koundé's performance has led FC Barcelona to seek a solution in defense. With Hansi Flick at the helm, the club has decided to make an unexpected turn. Recover a player who already knows Camp Nou and who was once discarded by Xavi Hernández.
A Necessary Signing for Flick
Barça continues to adjust its squad to face the second half of the season with greater defensive guarantees.
Since his arrival, Hansi Flick has analyzed each line of the team and has identified that the defense needs urgent reinforcements. Although Jules Koundé has been a regular starter, his performance hasn't fully convinced, and the lack of options has led the sports management to consider an unexpected return.
Barça's idea is to incorporate a versatile defender with experience in LaLiga who doesn't represent a significant economic expense. The chosen profile meets all those requirements. Since he can play both as a center-back and a right-back and has shown a great level in recent seasons.
The cost of the signing is another point in favor. With an investment of around 10 million euros, Barça would manage to strengthen its defense without overly compromising its delicate financial situation.
His Departure from Barça Was Controversial
This player had an important stint at Barça in the past. He debuted with Ronald Koeman in 2020 and quickly earned a place in the team. His versatility, attitude, and ability to play in various positions made him a valuable resource.
However, with the arrival of Xavi Hernández, his role changed drastically. The Catalan coach decided not to count on him, arguing that he didn't fit into his game plan. In the summer of 2022, Barça sold him and he had to seek his future away from Camp Nou.
Since his departure from Barça, this footballer has grown remarkably. He has established himself in his new team and has shown that he can perform at a high level in LaLiga. His performances have caught the attention of the blaugrana coaching staff, who consider that he is now more mature and ready to compete again at an elite club.
Moreover, the player never closed the door to a possible return. In interviews, he has assured that he still has affection for the club and would like to have a new opportunity if Barça calls him again.
How Will He Fit into the Current Barça?
The return of this defender will generate very interesting internal competition. With Flick on the bench, the team is expected to have greater defensive solidity. For this, the German coach needs players who adapt quickly and understand his game idea well.
This footballer, having come from Barça's youth academy, knows the club's play style and could fit immediately into Flick's scheme. Moreover, his versatility will allow him to compete for the right-back position with Koundé and also be an alternative in the center of the defense. This would provide greater depth to the squad.
Finally, the player we are talking about is Óscar Mingueza, who currently plays for Celta de Vigo. After his departure from Barça, Mingueza has grown as a footballer, becoming a defensive pillar of his team. His performance has been consistent and he has shown that he can compete at the highest level.
Now, with Flick's support, Barça has decided to bring him back to strengthen the defense and give him a second chance at the club where he was trained. This return not only strengthens the squad but also sends a clear message: at Barça, second chances exist.