Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is full of energy and ambition as the club begins its pre-season tour in Japan.
The French international took to Instagram to express his readiness ahead of the team’s first friendly match against Vissel Kobe, set to take place on Sunday. In a short but emphatic message, Kounde wrote:
“First pre-season game tomorrow in Kobe. Year 9. Ready to go. Hungry as ever. Let’s hunt.”
Kounde is coming off a successful 2024–25 campaign, in which he played a key role in Barcelona’s domestic treble—La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. Now entering his third season with the Catalan giants, the 25-year-old continues to grow into a leadership role within the squad.
Contract Extension Imminent
Barcelona is expected to finalize a new long-term contract for Kounde in the coming weeks. The deal would reportedly keep him at the club until 2030, further reinforcing his importance to the team’s defensive core.
Kounde’s extension comes as part of a broader strategy to secure the futures of key players under new head coach Hansi Flick, who is keen to build continuity and cohesion ahead of a challenging season.
Pre-Season Tour Schedule
Barcelona’s pre-season begins in Kobe, Japan, with a match against J-League side Vissel Kobe. The team will then travel to South Korea, where they will face FC Seoul and Daegu FC before returning to Spain for the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy, this year against Italian side Como.
These fixtures will provide valuable minutes for both first-team regulars and young academy talents, as Flick continues to assess his squad and implement his tactical philosophy.
Looking Ahead
With the new season on the horizon, Kounde’s mindset reflects the ambition within the Barcelona camp. As the team prepares to defend its domestic titles and push for success in Europe, the defender’s hunger and leadership could prove vital.