Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has reportedly asked Hansi Flick if he can play at center-back after seeing Ronald Araujo ruled out for the time being. Araujo has been granted a temporary leave of absence in the wake of his red card against Chelsea, and it's not clear yet when he will return to action. According to Cope's Helena Condis, the situation has seen Kounde ask about the possibility of him switching from right back to a central role.
Honestly, with the work he's doing, can you imagine if he wins something at the end of the season? I'd probably say, okay, that's okay. In my case, after almost seven years, I have achieved it with Arsenal. I think it's time to look for something else'. I would understand. Well, look, Barcelona is one of the best clubs in the world. I will return to Spain and the lifestyle is good for my family'.
There's some very good news for this one as Barça get two crucial midfield reinforcements in Frenkie de Jong, back after a bout with the flu, and Fermín López, who's recovered from a minor calf issue and is back in the squad. That leaves only four first team players out for this one, as Marc-André ter Stegen (back), Dani Olmo (shoulder) and Gavi (knee) are ruled out through injury while Ronald Araujo remains away from the team for mental health reasons.
Kylian Mbappe returned to the Cathedral where he experienced his epiphany in 2024, his resurrection born after hitting rock bottom, and delivered something like salvation. Exactly a year since he missed a penalty there, a bad moment he later said was a good one, the Frenchman was back at San Mames on Wednesday night. Last time, he missed a second penalty in a week, an awakening accompanying failure; this time, he scored two goals in an hour and set up another,
The speculation appears to have started from Joan Fontes on X and a post yesterday that read: "Íñigo, desperate to return to Barça." Fast forward a few hours and notorious rumor-mongers Fichajes posted a report that read "Iñigo Martínez is pushing to return to Barcelona in January." The report goes on to talk about how Martinez is eager to return on loan in the January window and "is confident that his desire to return will be fulfilled."
Frenkie de Jong returned to Barcelona training on Thursday morning and looks set to face Real Betis on Saturday in La Liga. The Dutchman missed the win over Atletico Madrid in midweek due to a fever but has recovered and should be in the squad for Barca's next match. De Jong's return will be a boost for Hansi Flick who saw Dani Olmo become the latest player to succumb to injury.
He is an exciting young talent with a bright future, and he has shown his quality in the Premier League. He could prove to be a superb addition for Chelsea if they manage to get the deal done. They would have to pay around 70-80 million to sign the player, as per Football Insider. Nottingham Forest will not sanction his departure in January, and Chelsea will have to wait until the summer transfer window in order to get the deal done.
