According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Barcelona are increasingly concerned about Jules Kounde’s chances of recovering in time for Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid, as the defender continues to experience significant discomfort from a serious ankle sprain.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Frenchman’s condition has left the coaching staff pessimistic about his availability for the crucial encounter.

Kounde sustained the injury during Barcelona’s La Liga meeting with Real Betis on Saturday. The 27-year-old managed to complete the match before returning from Seville the following day with a noticeable limp.

Medical examinations conducted on Sunday confirmed a sprain in his left ankle. The injury subsequently ruled him out of Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

His absence, alongside Eric Garcia’s injury and Andreas Christensen’s continued unavailability, left Hansi Flick with limited defensive options against the French champions.

The situation has now raised doubts about whether Kounde can recover sufficiently to face Real Madrid at the Spotify Camp Nou this weekend. Before the PSG encounter, Flick suggested that the defender could still return, although he acknowledged that his condition needed further assessment.

However, the latest developments have reportedly reduced Barcelona’s optimism. Kounde continues to experience considerable pain, while his difficulty walking normally makes his participation increasingly uncertain.

One possibility would involve administering an injection to manage the discomfort and potentially allow him to play. However, this approach carries risks because additional strain could worsen the ligament damage. Any decision would involve Kounde, Flick and the club’s medical staff.

Meanwhile, Xavi Espart has emerged as a potential solution at right-back following his impressive performance against PSG. The youngster could earn an opportunity against Real Madrid if Kounde remains unavailable.

Flick could also consider deploying Frenkie de Jong in central defence. However, the Dutchman did not feature against PSG, making a starting role in El Clasico appear unlikely. Barcelona must therefore assess their remaining options carefully ahead of Sunday's decisive showdown.