Barcelona’s defence dilemma as Flick’s doubts over Koundé grow
A tactical rethink at the back
Barcelona’s summer transfer planning is increasingly shaped by Hansi Flick’s early assessment of how well the current squad fits his tactical ideas. While no formal decisions have been taken, internal discussions are focusing on defensive balance and positional reliability, particularly on the right side of the back line.
According to El Nacional, Flick’s staff has been reviewing whether certain players are best suited to their roles under the new system, rather than judging them solely on past contributions.
Why Flick is losing confidence in Koundé
Jules Koundé’s situation reflects that reassessment. According to El Nacional, Flick is growing uncertain about Koundé’s long term suitability as a right back, a position the French international has filled regularly despite preferring a central defensive role.
The report explains that Flick values natural width, consistent overlapping runs, and positional discipline from his full backs, areas where Koundé is seen as less convincing. While his defensive reliability is appreciated, the coaching staff reportedly believes the right flank lacks attacking fluency when Koundé plays there.
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Rather than stemming from a single performance or mistake, El Nacional notes that the doubts are linked to a broader tactical evaluation since Flick’s arrival.
A potential exit scenario emerges
According to El Nacional, Barcelona would be prepared to consider negotiations if offers in the region of €30 million are received. Such a figure would allow the club to balance sporting priorities with financial constraints, particularly as they look to reshape the squad within La Liga’s spending limits.
Koundé has remained a regular presence in the squad, which makes the reported openness to a sale notable, but the outlet stresses that any move would depend on market interest rather than an active push to sell.
Muñoz identified as a stylistic fit
Should Koundé leave, Barcelona already have a profile in mind. According to El Nacional, Crystal Palace right back Daniel Muñoz has been identified as the leading candidate to step into the role.
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The report states that Muñoz’s pace, work rate, and comfort providing width align more closely with Flick’s expectations for the position. Although the Colombian defender is currently recovering from an injury, Barcelona’s interest reportedly remains firm, with medical concerns not seen as a deal breaker at this stage.
A summer shaped by Flick’s ideas
According to El Nacional, the situation around Koundé and Muñoz reflects a wider shift at Barcelona, where player roles are being reconsidered based on tactical fit rather than status. As the transfer window approaches, decisions are expected to accelerate once clarity emerges around budgets, recoveries, and incoming offers.
Sources, El Nacional
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