Jules Kounde commits long-term future to Barcelona with new deal

The French defender revealed the news after a training session in Seoul on Wednesday. "Everything is set to renew until 2030 when we get back to Barcelona. It was sorted quickly," Kounde said.

Negotiations between the player and the club began in March, with Kounde showing full commitment from the outset. The deal was finalised in recent days, though the official announcement will wait until the squad returns to Catalonia next week. Despite this, Kounde was happy to share the update himself.

"The club and I were on the same page about continuing together. I'm delighted, I feel comfortable with the team and their ambition, and I'm grateful to be at a club that fights for every trophy each year. I had no intention of leaving," the international defender said.

Kounde remains a cornerstone of manager Hansi Flick's plans. Last season, he featured in 53 matches, only missing the starting lineup due to unavoidable circumstances or occasional late arrivals to team talks. Flick considers him indispensable.

Reflecting on his role, Kounde has settled into the right-back position but hinted at flexibility. "Nothing is set in stone in football," he said with a smile. "I'm only 26, and while I've been playing right-back, I hope to step up this year. I'm always available for the manager, and he knows I can play both positions.

"I'll always feel like a centre-back at heart since that's where I was trained, but I'm happy."

Kounde also laughed off repeated questions about his memorable goal against Real Madrid. "It's a great memory, and I don't mind people asking about it," he said.

On new signing Marcus Rashford, Kounde noted his smooth integration. "Marcus is settling in well. He's happy and reminds me a bit of myself, slightly introverted but enjoying himself and growing more comfortable. The team have welcomed him warmly," he said.

Regarding goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and his potential future at the club, Kounde was more reserved. "He's not with us right now, and it's not something we discuss. We know it's a tough situation for him as a teammate and person. The captaincy issue isn't for me to answer, that's for the manager and the club to decide," he said.