Barcelona avoid injury blow as defender spotted back in training

Barcelona have avoided a key injury blow to their squad after Jules Kounde was spotted in training, despite picking up an ankle injury against Germany.

Alarm bells rang after it was reported that French star Kounde had suffered a blow against Germany and was later substituted off the pitch. However, further reports revealed that the blow to his ankle was minor, and the change was purely for precaution.

It appears the 25-year-old is unscathed, as he was spotted training normally with the French squad this week.

He played an hour of France's 2-0 defeat at the hands of Germany and will now enter the squad list to face Chile on Tuesday in Marseille.

It is yet to be revealed whether Didier Deschamps will start the defender, or rest him to avoid a further scare.

A versatile player, Kounde first signed for Barcelona with the aim of covering their central defence. However, manager Xavi has opted to position him at right-back, where he seems to thrive.

He also plays as a right-back for France, proving his efficiency on the flank.

It was announced earlier this year that head coach Xavi would leave Barcelona at the end of the season, however since announcing his departure the team's form has improved dramatically.

Barca are enjoying a ten-game unbeaten run across all competitions and recently booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time since 2020.

So far Barcelona have survived the international break with no injuries, with Kounde providing the only scare. Kounde is set to return to Spain after the break, before his side face Las Palmas in La Liga on 30 March.

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