According to a report by Barca Universal on Friday October 23, 2026, Jules Kounde, a defender for Barcelona, is battling an ankle injury and is hoping to play in Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid.

According to reports, the French international has swum in a frigid pool for a rigorous recovery session in preparation for the pivotal match at Spotify Camp Nou.

After missing Barcelona's Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain, Kounde has been out with a sprained left ankle. He was also absent from Friday's team training, so Saturday's session could be the deciding factor in his availability.

The defender just posted a Snapchat video of his recovery process. He was shown working out at nite in a chilly outdoor pool—just 10 degrees Celsius—in the video.

A combination of the chilly wind and cloud cover made for very unpleasant weather. When Kounde's coach told him to wear a swimsuit to training, he made fun of the fact that his plans for the session changed.

He went to the gym for what he thought would be a regular workout, but then he found out he would be working out in the frigid pool. Additionally, he made a joke about how, after a half an hour in the water, he realized he was actually more at ease on land.

Injured athletes can exercise in a pool-based rehabilitation program because it reduces the impact on their joints. Just because Kounde finishes such a session doesn't imply he's physically prepared for the rigors of a football game.

With Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen already out with injuries, Hansi Flick would have an even bigger selection dilemma in his possible absence. After Xavi Espart's impressive performance and goal against PSG, Barcelona may choose to start the youngster at right back.

Flick now has an additional defensive option thanks to Espart's performance in case Kounde doesn't make it back in time. Regardless, before taking on Real Madrid, the Barcelona manager needs to think carefully about his decisions.

We should have a better idea of Kounde's status after Saturday's practice. His readiness to play in Sunday's El Clasico depends on how well his ankle heals, but he clearly wants to be back.