Barcelona defender Jules Kounde escapes potential injury scare during March international break – reports
Jules Kounde, 25, reportedly had an ankle injury following Saturday’s 2-0 loss of France to Germany at the Groupama Stadium, as reported by Sabre Desfarges.
Les Bleus was behind 2-0 when Didier Deschamps pulled Koundé after an hour. It appeared to be a strategic replacement. The Olympique de Marseille player, Jonathan Clauss, took the position of the Barcelona defence as a more aggressive option. That’s why his introduction made sense—France was chasing the game.
The penultimate match for Les Bleus before this summer’s Euros, which will take place in Germany, is scheduled on Tuesday between France and Chile. Players like Clauss or even Benjamin Pavard, who opened as a centre-back against Germany, might be allowed to shine in his possible absence.
Desfarges, however, disclosed that Koundé was dealing with a right ankle ailment following the game. The journalist continued by saying that although the damage wasn’t twisted, ice did need to be applied. Koundé’s ability to continue playing during the current international break is therefore in doubt.
It is hoped that Kounde can stay with the French national squad and be available for their upcoming friendly against Chile in Marseille on Tuesday.
After that, Kounde will return to Barcelona in time for the team’s La Liga match on Saturday, March 30, facing Las Palmas. However, it’s since been reported that Kounde only suffered a blow to the ankle and has hopefully avoided a real injury.
Journalist Saber Desfarges reported, “he did not twist his ankle, it was just a strong blow that was treated with ice.”
