Barcelona manager Hansi Flick’s changing tactical approach is creating greater competition for Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, with both defenders facing uncertainty over their places in the starting line-up.

According to Barca Universal on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Flick is reshaping the full-back roles at Barcelona. Rather than relying primarily on conventional defensive qualities, the German coach increasingly favours players who are comfortable in midfield, technically secure and capable of helping the team control possession.

The shift marks a change from Flick’s first season at the club in 2024/25. Kounde and Balde were regular starters whenever available. Their importance has since declined as the manager experiments with different profiles and demands more varied responsibilities.

Under the evolving system, full-backs are expected to move into central areas, support the build-up and help Barcelona create numerical advantages in midfield. They must retain possession under pressure and contribute to advancing attacks. These demands emphasise technical ability and positional understanding, rather than simply defending wide areas and overlapping.

La Masia graduate Xavi Espart offered an early example of Flick’s preferred direction. He made 15 appearances across both full-back positions before sustaining an injury against Real Madrid. His performances demonstrated the value of a defender capable of adapting to different roles.

Espart’s absence opened the door for Brian Farinas, who impressed against Alaves and Aston Villa. The 20-year-old’s display against Alaves was notable: he registered 114 touches and completed more than 97 per cent of his passes. Those figures highlighted his comfort in possession and ability to help Barcelona circulate the ball.

Farinas has also shown an understanding with Lamine Yamal, while his composure in possession has attracted attention. Such qualities matter in a team that relies on attacking wingers. With Yamal operating high up the pitch, Flick wants full-backs to move inside, offer passing options and progress the ball through central spaces.

Joao Cancelo and Eric Garcia have benefited from the adjustment. Their ability to contribute to the build-up and operate beyond traditional full-back roles has helped them become preferred choices on opposite sides of the defence.

The adjustment is intended to give Barcelona more options during possession, allowing defenders to function as additional midfielders instead of remaining fixed near the touchline. It also increases competition for places.

For Kounde and Balde, the change presents different challenges. Balde’s strongest attacking weapon is his pace, allowing him to exploit space on the flank. Flick’s preference for full-backs who move centrally may require him to adapt his contribution in possession.

Kounde, meanwhile, is naturally comfortable as a centre-back, but the midfield responsibilities expected of the new full-back profile have reportedly made adaptation more difficult. Both remain in the squad, and rotation could provide opportunities during a demanding schedule.

Nevertheless, their positions are no longer as secure as during Flick’s first campaign. As he continues developing his system, Barcelona may eventually seek replacements whose technical qualities and positional flexibility fit his plans. For now, Kounde and Balde must adapt to his demands to regain regular starting roles.