According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Barcelona are hopeful that Jules Kounde can recover sufficiently to make the bench for Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid after missing Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain.

The French defender is battling a left ankle sprain, and his availability will depend on his progress during the coming days.

Kounde sustained the injury during Barcelona’s La Liga encounter against Real Betis last weekend. He struggled to walk comfortably after the match, and medical examinations confirmed the ankle sprain on Sunday.

The setback ruled him out of the trip to face PSG. However, Barcelona have not completely ruled out his participation against Real Madrid, according to SPORT.

The club intend to monitor his recovery until the last possible moment. Although his chances of starting remain slim, Barcelona believe he could still provide an option from the bench if his condition improves.

Kounde’s potential return would offer Hansi Flick a significant boost amid the club’s defensive injury problems. Andreas Christensen has been sidelined since September, while Eric Garcia is expected to miss four to five weeks after suffering an injury against Betis.

Those absences have left Barcelona short of defensive options during a demanding period. Gerard Martin played against PSG despite experiencing ankle discomfort, while Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart filled the full-back positions. Alejandro Balde also made a late substitute appearance.

Kounde had gradually been receiving more playing time after losing his regular starting position earlier in the season. His experience could prove valuable against Real Madrid, particularly with Flick facing limited options at the back.

Nevertheless, Barcelona are determined to avoid rushing the defender back prematurely. Making the bench appears to be a more realistic possibility than starting the encounter.

Aggravating the ankle injury could leave Kounde sidelined for a longer period. Barcelona must therefore ensure that he receives medical clearance before considering his involvement.

Flick will hope the defender makes sufficient progress to become available for Sunday’s crucial encounter. However, if Kounde fails to recover in time, Barcelona will have to rely on their remaining defensive options rather than risk his long-term fitness.