If Kounde To Barca, Dare Xavi Suggest Pique?

Julen Kounde (Instagram @jkeey4)

JAKARTA - Gerard Pique has been a mainstay of Barcelona's defense for more than a decade. However, this summer, his position was threatened. Especially if the Blaugrana signed Jules Kunde from Sevilla.

Kounde is one of the most coveted defenders in Europe. And if the Blaugrana signed him for 55 million euros, he certainly wasn't being paid to warm the bench.

Add to that the signing of Andreas Christensen, who arrived on a free transfer from Chelsea, and the progress that has been made by Ronald Araujo. That is, it is clear that there is fierce competition at the back of Barcelona.

Let's not forget Spain international Eric Garcia, who joined last summer from Manchester City. Xavi will definitely have a headache in making the selection of defense this season.

Araujo (23) has not needed time to win everyone's hearts since arriving in 2019. He is even a very smart investment with Barca costing him under two million euros.

Now, with a newly signed contract until 2026, he is expected to play for Barcelona for many years to come.

Alongside the Uruguayan, it seems Xavi wants Kunde to be part of his defense. The coach specifically asked for the signing of the French player to the club officials.

The Sevilla defender was close to joining Chelsea, but when he heard Xavi wanted him at Camp Nou, everything changed.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is confident that he can give both Xavi and Kunde what they want and bring them together.

Christensen and Garcia as backup

Should Xavi decide to use a three centre-back formation, it looks likely that Christensen will be the third choice, leaving Pique further away from the starting line-up.

Eric Garcia, meanwhile, hasn't had an enjoyable first season in the Blaugrana's first team. However, at the age of 21, Xavi seems to think he has a future.

The point is very clear. If Kunde arrives in Barcelona, ​​Xavi may not really need Pique on the pitch.