Injured Barcelona defender on track to return fully fit for pre-season
Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is expected to return to full fitness in time for the club's pre-season preparations, which begin on July 13.
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, it has been learned that the French international is recovering well from the hamstring injury he picked up on April 30 during the thrilling 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final.
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Kounde's injury sidelined him for the rest of the season under Hansi Flick and also cost him a place in Didier Deschamps' France squad for the UEFA Nations League matches, where they faced Spain in the semi-final and then Germany for the third-place finish.
However, recent updates suggest the 26-year-old is on course for a complete recovery, with no setbacks reported.
Training hard despite being on holiday
While enjoying a well-earned break in the United States, Kounde has been posting regular updates on social media showing his commitment to recovery.
From running in public parks to working out on athletics tracks, he is making sure he returns in peak physical condition for the new campaign.
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The injury, a distal hamstring issue in his left thigh, now appears to be healing well. Sources close to the club and the player believe there is no reason to worry about his availability when the squad reunites in July.
Kounde's work ethic hasn't gone unnoticed either, as Barcelona manager Hansi Flick even joked during a press conference that resting the Frenchman is nearly impossible: 'Otherwise he will go running along the Sitges seafront.'
Now a key figure at right-back, despite originally being a central defender, Kounde's dedication and versatility make him a vital part of Flick's plans going forward.
With his recovery going smoothly, Barcelona fans can look forward to seeing him back in action for pre-season training and ready for a fresh start under the new manager.
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