Where in the world is Jules Kounde? The defender’s absence in Barcelona’s first two games of the season against Mallorca and Levante has been a real head scratcher.
So far, what we’ve heard from Hansi Flick, is that Eric García has simply been on a good run of form. He had a strong preseason, and has earned the manager’s confidence and admiration.
For me, García was the comeback player of the year for Barcelona last season. After a successful loan at Girona, he came back to Barcelona on a mission and
quickly proved himself to the new boss.
In large part, Eric is valuable because of his versatility and high football IQ. It’s no surprise that he has been so effective as a backup full-back and midfielder. He understands the game at a deep level, and has a diverse skillset in terms of control and distribution, that go beyond his traditional training as a defender.
But has he done enough to supplant Kounde? You’d be hard pressed to find anyone who would say yes.
So what’s really behind Flick’s decision?
Is it a move intended to motivate Kounde? To send a message to the team that no one is safe, and everyone has to earn their minutes?
To be clear, Eric is not to blame for the struggles that the Barcelona defense has had so far.
Losing Iñigo Martinez may haunt Barcelona this season. As a result of the departure, Pau Cubarsí is now playing as the left-sided center-back, which I don’t think will last for long. Flick has chosen Ronald Araujo over Andreas Christensen, which may not be permanent as well.
Flick looks like he’s still not sure what to do with his backline. And that’s ok. After all, he was dealt a tough hand to work with at the 11th hour. Experimentation is allowed, and Flick has shown he is good at making informed decisions.
But leaving out Kounde, who just signed a new contract through 2030, seems like an unforced error.
Doing it on opening day was surprising. Doing it two times in a row seems like a message.
Watch this space on Sunday when Barcelona head to Madrid to face Rayo Vallecano. I expect to see Kounde back in the starting eleven.
Barcelona are going to be in a tough race against a new and improved Real Madrid this season. They need their best players on the field in order to keep the pace.
Jules Kounde has been an ironman for Barcelona. Selecting him should be one of the easiest choices Flick has to make.
