Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained in early March. There is optimism for his swift return, with the ongoing international break providing a window for him to recover before the team’s next fixtures.
Kounde recently spoke to media outlets for the Kings League, the football competition founded by former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique, where he also manages a team. During a stream, he was asked to name his favourite teammate at the club, and his response was notably emphatic.
“Pedri is my favourite player. He’s absolutely brilliant. Honestly, he’s one of those players who operates on another level; even what he does in training and beyond. His innate technique, his ability to pivot with either foot, and his incredible vision of the game truly set him apart.”
Kounde Highlights Pedri’s Underappreciated Defensive Contribution
The French international added that many people tend to underestimate Pedri, particularly his defensive prowess. “There’s also a very underestimated aspect about him that I believe doesn’t get enough recognition: his defensive work,” Kounde stated. “Pedri is a player who constantly runs and recovers the ball. Last year, he was the player who recovered the most balls in Europe. He covers around 12km per game, and simultaneously, he has to win back possession, advance the team, distribute the ball, and break through opposition defensive lines. He is absolutely brilliant.”
Pedri consistently proves himself as one of Barcelona’s key players, and his absence is significantly felt whenever he is not on the pitch. Kounde, along with the club’s fanbase, will be eagerly anticipating that the 21-year-old midfielder remains fit and available for the remainder of the season.
