Jules Kounde Faces Injury Setback Before World Cup 2026 Kickoff

LILLE, FRANCE - JUNE 08: Jules Koundé #5 of Team France in action during the International Friendly match between France and Northern Ireland at Stade Pierre Mauroy on June 08, 2026 in Lille, France. (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Barcelona and French national team defender Jules Kounde has encountered a muscle injury just days before the commencement of the World Cup 2026. The setback occurred during a friendly match against Northern Ireland, where Kounde requested to be substituted at halftime due to discomfort, according to reports from L’Equipe.

Fortunately, initial assessments suggest that the injury isn't severe, offering some optimism for both Kounde and the French squad. France is set to begin their World Cup journey on Tuesday against Senegal, and there are hopes that Kounde will be fit to participate in the match.

Managed by Didier Deschamps, the French team is considered a top contender for the title in the upcoming tournament held across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. In addition to Senegal, France will also face Iraq and Norway during the group stage.

In preparation for the World Cup, Les Bleus played two warm-up matches, facing a defeat against Ivory Coast but securing a victory over Northern Ireland with a score of 3-1. Kounde enters the tournament acknowledging that he did not perform at his best for Barcelona last season, amidst speculation regarding his potential departure from the club, though he has expressed a desire to remain.