Jules Koundé under pressure, threat of an imminent departure

In the corridors of the Camp Nou, Jules Koundé watches the training sessions, aware that the season that saw him total forty‑seven matches with Barça and fourteen with the French national team is coming to an end. The new 2026‑2027 campaign already starts differently, with only three matches out of eight at club level.

Competition in the French national team

Under the guidance of the new manager Zinédine Zidane, Koundé must face competition from Pierre Kalulu. In the French national team, he has played only two matches out of four, which pushes him to demonstrate that he remains the first choice in his position.

Uncertainty at Barça

At Barça, the situation is different. Eric Garcia has been tried at right‑back, while the club, according to El Nacional, would be considering a major transfer. Hansi Flick, eager for a more attacking full‑back, does not see Koundé as the ideal profile.

“But his inconsistency and some ball‑control errors have ultimately eroded the technical staff’s confidence,” reports El Nacional, highlighting the doubts of the blaugrana staff.

If a €70 million offer were to materialise, Barça would be ready to let Jules Koundé go. Their eager successor is Pedro Porro, the world‑champion right‑back of La Roja, who scored a goal against the French in the World Cup semi‑final.

Porro has an established understanding with Lamine Yamal, his teammate in the national team, which enhances the club’s appeal for the young Spanish defender.

Losing his place at the club could affect Koundé’s role in the French national team. Despite his vice‑captain status, highlighted by the armband he wore against Belgium, his future with the French could be called into question.

Thus, the 2026‑2027 season could mark a decisive turning point for the French defender, whose place both at the Camp Nou and in the national team now depends on performances and imminent decisions.