"As such, he has played nine consecutive matches, completing the full 90 minutes in eight of them, and did not take part in group training on Friday. The accumulation of minutes is beginning to take its toll, and Flick may decide it's finally time to give the 25-year-old a breather. Another factor behind Kounde's recent dip in sharpness is Lamine Yamal's fitness issues."
"During Friday's open training session at Spotify Camp Nou, Kounde posed for the team photo in street shoes, signalling he was sitting out training. However, the defender is "OK and should not have problems for Sunday." However, whether he starts will largely depend on Garcia's readiness. If the Spaniard is fit, he could slot in at right-back, allowing Kounde to take a break."
Jules Kounde has experienced significant fatigue after an intense run of matches, featuring in nine consecutive games and completing 90 minutes in eight. He missed group training on Friday and posed for the team photo in street shoes, indicating he sat out training. Lamine Yamal's ongoing fitness issues have reduced right-wing defensive support, forcing Kounde to cover more ground and defend more frequently. Barcelona's wider injury crisis limits defensive rotation. Eric Garcia is a possible replacement at right-back but is managing discomfort from a nasal fracture and wore a protective mask in training. Xavi Espart remains an emergency option.
Read at Barca Universal
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