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Jules Kounde makes official debut

French defender starts against Real Valladolid, and contributes to an impressive victory

Jules Kounde was finally registered and able to start for Barça against Valladolid in a 4-0 win at the Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday night.

He had already featured in the Gamper against Pumas and the midweek friendly against Manchester City, but this was his first appearance in an official fixture.

He started at right back with Araújo and Eric García in the middle and Alejandro Balde on the left. He made some key interventions throughout the game and also seems to have developed an instant relationship with Raphinha playing just in front of him. In the second half, after Sergi Roberto came on for Araújo, Kounde joined Garcia in the centre of defence and continued to excel, making a particularly important clearance in the 69th minute.

“I felt comfortable”

Speaking to DAZN after the game, Jules Koundé said "I am very happy with the win and also not to have conceded any goals because that's important for the team's confidence ... We were also happy that so many people came to the Spotify Camp Nou”.

"I was really comfortable and felt good out there, although I am still not at my best. I have been training hard to be ready to play when I could. I felt fine in both positions, but there are still certain concepts that I need to learn. But that's why I've come to Barça. To learn and to win titles."

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