Jules Koundé Confirms New Contract Extension With Barcelona

‎Jules Koundé announced on Wednesday that he has agreed to a contract extension with FC Barcelona until June 2030.

‎The France international confirmed that he will soon sign the new deal, which extends his current contract that was set to expire in June 2027.

‎”Yes, it’s a matter of days,” Koundé told reporters in Seoul, where Barça are staying as part of their Asian tour.

‎”When we return, everything will be finalised, so I’m happy about that. It’s been quite quick, both the club and I had the same idea: to continue.

‎”I’m very happy here, I feel comfortable in the team and I’m very motivated by the club’s ambition. Every year we fight for all the titles and I had no intention of leaving. My contract runs until 2030.”

‎Since joining Barcelona from Sevilla in 2022, Koundé has established himself as a regular starter at right-back. He has scored seven goals and delivered 18 assists in 141 appearances across all competitions.

‎Last season, the French international helped the Catalan giants win the league title, along with the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey.

‎Kounde talks about his role in the team

‎Next season, the plan is for Koundé to remain Barcelona’s first-choice right-back. Previously, this role was considered a dealbreaker for him, as he prefers playing in central defense and, before last season, was seeking a move back to midfield.

‎However, under coach Flick, Koundé has stated that he is content playing in his current position.

‎“Nothing is set in stone in football,” he laughed.

‎“I’m only 26, and I’ve indeed been playing full-back. I hope to take a step forward this year. I’m always available to the coach; he knows I can play in both positions.

‎”I’ll always feel more like a centre-back, because I was trained as one, but I’m happy.”

‎Kounde reacts to Ter Stegen’s injury and captaincy

‎Meanwhile, captain and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is making headlines amid rumors of a potential departure and concerns about losing his leadership role.

‎The 33-year-old underwent surgery on Tuesday and is expected to be sidelined for the next four months. Koundé commented on the situation, sharing his thoughts.

‎“He’s not with us right now, and it’s not a topic we’re discussing. We know it’s a difficult situation for him, as a teammate and as a person. The question of the captaincy isn’t one for me, it’s for the manager and depends on what the club wants to do.”