Jules Kounde set to return to centre-back after ten months against Real Sociedad

Barcelona are set to face Real Sociedad on Sunday, aiming to head into the international break with a positive result. However, injuries to key defenders may prompt manager Hansi Flick to make some defensive adjustments for the match.

Flick is reportedly considering moving Jules Kounde back to centre-back, a position he prefers but has not played in since January. According to *SPORT*, Kounde has historically favored playing centrally for Barcelona.

Alternatively, Flick could pair Sergi Dominguez with Inigo Martinez at centre-back, allowing Kounde to stay at right-back. However, given the current shortage of defenders, Flick may opt for the experience Kounde offers in central defense.

If Kounde is shifted to the centre, Hector Fort is expected to start at right-back. Fort impressed in the Catalan derby last weekend and could provide a solid option against Sociedad.

In another note, Pedri revealed that Hansi Flick would bench any player ruthlessly if they failed to meet certain standards—a fate that has befallen Kounde in the past.