Here’s why Barcelona defender Jules Kounde’s return to action is taking longer than expected

Here’s why Barcelona defender Jules Kounde’s return to action is taking longer than expected Barcelona are facing a major defensive setback, with Jules Kounde unlikely to recover in time for Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Atletico Madrid after his ankle injury proved more complicated than initially expected.  The French defender suffered a sprain to his left ankle against Real Betis on October 17 and has since missed four consecutive matches, with his return now expected after the November international break. Indeed, Kounde’s absence has become a concern for Hansi Flick, particularly given Barcelona’s shortage of defensive options during a demanding period of the season.  What initially appeared to be a relatively short lay-off has developed into a longer recovery, leaving the manager without one of his most versatile defenders and the fans puzzled. Kounde’s injury taking longer to heal than expected Barcelona initially confirmed that Kounde had suffered a left ankle sprain and would miss the Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain. Kounde has already missed four consecutive games. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The club did not rule out his availability for El Clasico against Real Madrid, instead stating that his recovery would determine whether he could feature. However, the defender failed to recover in time for the Clasico and subsequently missed matches against Alaves and Aston Villa. According to SPORT’s reporting, Kounde experienced discomfort even when attempting to put on his football boots before returning to training.  The medical staff and player therefore decided against accelerating his rehabilitation, prioritising a complete recovery over an early comeback. Flick prepares for Atletico Madrid clash without Kounde Kounde is likely to be out for the Atletico Madrid clash. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Kounde has continued working separately from the first-team group rather than returning to normal training.  Yesterday, he participated in individual work away from his teammates, leaving him with only a slim chance of making the squad for Sunday’s trip to Madrid. Notably, Flick has already indicated that he hopes to recover his injured players after the international break, although no definitive return date has been established for the Frenchman. If Kounde misses Atletico, it will be his fifth consecutive absence, and that would leave Barcelona without another established defensive option for a fixture carrying significant importance in the La Liga title race .