Jules Kounde talks Barcelona’s title defence, Lamine Yamal, and playing as a centre-back

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has said that the aim of the team this year to defend their league title. He added that although the competition from Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid is going to be difficult, the team has all the ammunition to defend to crown.

“Our goal is to win again,” the defender told Esport3. 

“There are [Real] Madrid and Atletico competing with us, but I think it will be a battle. There are of course other teams, there are many teams, they play well and have good players. 

“The goal, of course, is to win again. I think we have everything to do it and as we said, it’s about hard work. Let’s forget what we achieved last year because this year will be more difficult,” he added.

All eyes on Lamine Yamal

A certain Lamine Yamal has been the talk of the town of late. The young Barcelona forward has hit the ground running this season, eventually winding into the foray of the Spanish national team setup as well.

As the 16-year-old continues to dazzle one and all, Kounde has suggested that although the youngster has all the talent in the world, everyone on the roster is going to help him grow as this is going to be his breakthrough season.

“He’s a very young guy but he already has a lot of character on the field. He’s not afraid to do things and he will be a big addition for us. As a team, we will help him grow,” he explained.

Kounde hopes to play as a centre-back

Considering the absence of Ronald Araujo due to injury, Kounde has been deployed at his favoured centre-back position as opposed to playing as a right-back, which was quite frequent last season. While speaking about it, he said,

“I hope it continues! But the most important thing is always the team. I try to perform wherever I play. I am always available for the coach.”

Lastly, the former Sevilla defender also pressed that although last season was rather difficult for Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League, they will aim to do much better this year.

“Last year was very difficult. This year we are very motivated. We have to pass the group stage, of course. We have to take a step forward and continue on the right path,” he concluded.