Barcelona mainstay earns praise from international teammate – ‘He’s also a leader’ | OneFootball

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has enjoyed a great season thus far, making the right-back position his own.

The French international, who is celebrating his 26th birthday today, has become one of Hansi Flick’s most trusted players and is pretty much a permanent fixture in the team.

Kounde is currently away with the France national team for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and Italy.

Kounde earns praise

Ahead of their game against Israel later this weekend, France defender Dayot Upamecano has spoken positively about Kounde, hailing him as one of the leaders of the national team setup.

Jules Kounde has been brilliant for Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Upamecano came up against Kounde recently when Barça took on Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League and stated that the 26-year-old has been growing more and more confident.

“I played against him in the Champions League. He’s a confident player and I hope things continue that way. He’s also a leader and he’s beginning to have a lot of experience. I wish him all the best,” said Upamecano, as quoted by RMC Sport.

Interest coming from PSG, Liverpool

Given how Kounde has developed during his time at Barcelona, other top clubs from Europe have taken an interest in the 26-year-old.

Indeed, French champions PSG are said to be admirers of the versatile defender while Premier League bigwigs Liverpool are also keen.

However, Barcelona see Kounde as untouchable and have no plans of parting ways with the French international despite growing interest in him.