Barcelona mainstay elated after signing new contract – ‘It was easy to reach an agreement’

Barcelona have officially formalised the contract renewal of Jules Kounde, with the French international defender extending his stay at the club until June 2030. 

The signing was formalised today at the club’s offices in the presence of president Joan Laporta.

The agreement between both parties had already been reached several days earlier, but today marked the official confirmation of Kounde’s long-term commitment. 

First words after the renewal

Speaking after putting pen to paper, Kounde expressed his delight at continuing his journey with Barcelona.

“I’m very happy to renew. It was quite simple. I’m very happy, and for me and the club, it was easy to reach an agreement,” he told the club’s official channels.

“Goals? The sky’s the limit, as we say in France. That’s my objective. We’re lucky to be at a club that competes for every title. We’re going for more to win even more than last season.”

He further underlined his commitment to the long-term project. “I’m very proud to extend my contract. It was very easy. Club and I were clear about it. 

It will be for eight seasons, and what motivates us every day is winning titles. We have a team that can compete against anyone. Being a legend isn’t on my mind. People say that. I do receive love from people.”

Preferred playing position

When asked about his preferred position, Kounde remained clear. “It’s a question that always comes up. 

Jules’ words after signing his new contract ✍️ pic.twitter.com/bTVdIN4rVu

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 21, 2025

“I’m very happy at full-back, where I feel increasingly comfortable. It depends on the manager. To be honest, I’ll always think I’m a centre-back converted into a full-back.”

On his relationship with Flick. “We haven’t talked about this with the coach yet.”

Kounde also spoke about competition within the squad with Eric Garcia. “I’m doing very well. I like the competition. Eric is a great player. 

“I feel very good, and although we’re just starting the season, I can’t say I’ll be where I hope to be later on. I’m very demanding of myself, and I work to improve every year.”

On his ambitions to follow in the footsteps of past French greats. “It would be a huge honour to surpass French legends like Abidal. I’m not going to lie. It’s a goal. I want to have a leading role in this club, the greatest.”

And on the impact of his renewal. “The club has been through some tough times. We’re much better off both sportingly and financially. And if my signing has helped any new signings, I’m delighted.”

On playing with Lamine Yamal

Kounde praised Barcelona’s young star. “It’s impossible to harm him. We have a very good relationship. He’s an extraordinary player, brilliant, but above all, he’s a team player. 

“He works for the team. He’s not going to defend like any other player because he needs that energy to make decisions up front. I don’t mind defending a bit more if the guy plays these great games, scoring and assisting.”

Asked about the possibility of a Ballon d’Or in the youngster’s future, he carefully answered.

“You’re putting me in a difficult position because Dembélé is also there. I’ll just say that Lamien deserves it if he wins it with other players who have had a very good season.”

Looking ahead, Kounde highlighted where the team can progress. “We can serve better, defend better. If I take away one thing, it’s conceding fewer goals. 

“Especially in the final minutes, understanding that in a comfortable match, maybe it’s better not to risk so much and be more pragmatic to better manage the results.”