Barcelona defender Jules Koundé has held direct talks with head coach Hansi Flick, voicing his wish to return to the central defender position.
The conversation comes amid Ronald Araújo’s indefinite absence, with the club still unsure when the Uruguayan player will be able to rejoin the team. Araújo requested time off due to mental health concerns and has stepped away from the squad, while Barcelona has not set a specific timeline for his return.
Faced with a depleted defense, Koundé explicitly told Flick he hopes to feature in the central role. Reporters also noted that if Araújo’s situation persists and the team lacks squad depth, Barcelona has not ruled out signing a central defender in the January transfer window. The club has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Araújo’s absence and that the team needs to make corresponding adjustments.
