After two disappointing games at Montjuïc earlier this season, FC Barcelona’s defender Jules Koundé has stated a great desire for vengeance ahead of the team’s match against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano on Sunday.  “Of course.  We want to win everything, especially against a direct competitor, therefore we were not happy with those two results.  In those earlier matches, I think we played two solid games, but we lost because of small issues.

In a pre-game interview with club media, he said, “Therefore, we are excited to go there and win.”  “We need to take better care of the ball, be more focused to limit errors,” Koundé said, underscoring the team’s need to enhance ball control and focus in order to reduce errors.  They are especially dangerous during counterattacks and excel at taking advantage of errors made by the opposition.  Therefore, we must concentrate on these two areas,” he said following the league and cup games against Atletico.

“I train a lot to be available for the club and the team,” the Frenchman said, revealing that there are no secrets to his excellent form.  Right now, I’m really happy with how things are going for me.  But I have to keep working hard.  I do a lot of training in an effort to get myself as ready as possible.  Ultimately, I take football extremely seriously; it’s both my profession and my love,” he said.  “I feel valued,” Koundé said, expressing his sense of importance inside the team.  I’ve always had plenty of playing time since coming to Barcelona.  We enjoy playing football, playing a big part, and spending as much time as we can on the field.

After all, that’s where we have the most fun.  Thus, I’m quite content here.”  “I’m a defender at heart, but I increasingly enjoy attacking,” Koundé said, reflecting on his transition from central defense to a new position as a full-back.  I’ve found it simpler to adjust to this method when I play for a coach like Flick, whose style differs from many others’.”

In anticipation of their matchup with Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarterfinals, Koundé said, “They have a very strong and fast attack, with a dynamic striker who can find space and hold the ball well.”  It was difficult, but we were able to defeat them in the group stage.  He declared, “We expect two tough games where we have to play our best football.  “Our performances and the way we concluded the group stage have made us one of the favorites.

But being the favorite doesn’t mean you’ll win.  We must respect each opponent and go into the games with confidence,” he continued.  Koundé also talked about his Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal, who he shares the flanks with.  We get along great on and off the field, so I believe we support one another.  Being able to play with him is enjoyable.  As part of my job, I try to talk to him throughout the game to help him with defensive placement, but I won’t teach him how to attack.

“Since I am a defender at heart, I want the club to play strong defense.  I’m thrilled to play with him since he is a young player who puts forth a lot of effort for the squad,” Koundé said.