Xavi could opt for €40 million-rated defender over Jules Kounde for Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid

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Barca Universal

·2 December 2023

Xavi could opt for €40 million-rated defender over Jules Kounde for Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid

Barcelona have a crucial game coming up as they take on Atletico Madrid at home this Sunday.

It is a must-win game for the Catalans, as they look to keep up with Real Madrid and Girona in the race for the title. The club are coming on the back of a win over FC Porto in midweek, which helped them seal a place in the UCL knockout rounds.

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Andreas Christensen may start vs Atletico

One of the main talking points heading into this game for Barcelona is the role of Andreas Christensen in the team.

As per Mundo Deportivo, the chances of Christensen, whose market value stands at €40 million, starting against Atletico Madrid are getting stronger, as Xavi looks to shake things up at the back.

After enjoying a strong debut season, the Dane has struggled to establish himself as a first-team regular this term, especially following Jules Kounde’s return to centre-back.

Inigo Martinez, too, has performed brilliantly since returning to full fitness. As a result, Christensen has largely played European matches for Barça this season.

Christensen will have a chance to impress vs Atleti (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

But Christensen could get an opportunity against Atletico tomorrow night at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys. This comes on the back of Christensen’s agent reportedly meeting Deco to discuss his role in the first team.

Jules Kounde to be benched?

Christensen retaining his place in the starting eleven may come at the cost of Jules Kounde, the report adds.

It appears the Frenchman may start the Atletico Madrid game on the bench, which could be quite a substantial decision from coach Xavi Hernandez.

It must be noted that Christensen hasn’t performed all too badly this season, despite his lack of minutes in the starting lineup this season.

With that in mind, the game against Atleti could turn out to be an excellent opportunity for the former Chelsea star to prove himself and re-establish himself as a first-team regular.