Barcelona’s Champions League tilt against Inter Milan took a concerning turn when defender Jules Kounde limped off with injury in the first leg.
Fans and teammates are concerned about his potential availability in the second leg.
The Frenchman has been a constant at the back for Barça this season after being somewhat of a late-summer transfer coup.
Jules Kounde came off after appearing to have pulled up a muscular problem, but in light of medical tests, the exact cause of his injury is still unknown.
Supporters hoping he’s ok will have to wait a few days for medical updates on the severity of the injury.
Flick’s side would significantly miss Jules Koundé.
Jules Kounde versatility as a center-back and right-back has been instrumental in providing Barcelona with a solid defensive backline.
His pace, intelligence, and ability to play out from the back make it difficult to get a similar type of player in big matches.
Should he be ruled out for the return leg against Inter, Barcelona’s backline will be significantly compromised against a dangerous attack.
If Koundé is ruled out, Hansi Flick’s available defenders are Ronald Araujo, Eric García, or even young Héctor Fort.
Araujo is the safest option, but he’s more of a center-back than a right-back.
Garcia has been very consistent lately, and Fort is a very talented young player without a lot of experience.
Barcelona fans will likely be holding their breath that Koundé suffered nothing serious, but if the prognosis reveals something serious, they might be done in the Champions League.
In the coming weeks, Koundé will have 3 or 4 very important matches that will play a huge part in their assessment of Koundé’s condition.
For now, the club and supporters can only wait – and hope- their defensive rock is ready for the all-important second leg.
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