Jules Kounde trains extra hours to reclaim his Barcelona starting spot

Jules Kounde is increasing his training volume at the Ciutat Esportiva to regain a starting role at Barcelona. The 27-year-old defender has seen his prominence drop during the 2026/27 season, starting only two of the team's five matches under Hansi Flick. Eric Garcia has overtaken him as the preferred option at right-back, and the club considered potential transfer offers for Kounde earlier this summer. Beyond scheduled sessions, Kounde is currently working with physiotherapists and fitness coaches to restore his form. This extra effort mirrors his previous training habits, which previously included personal sessions on his own time. Kounde intends to work his way back into the starting XI as competition for defensive spots remains high.

• 12:40 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona defender putting in extra work to return to his best and win back Flick’s trust