Barcelona Locks Down Jules Kounde with Major Long-Term Deal: "We're Lucky"

Jules Koundé has officially signed his new five-year deal with Barcelona, securing his future at the Catalan club through June 2030.

While the club announced the French defender's contract renewal last week, the formal signing ceremony took place Thursday afternoon at Camp Nou. Barcelona president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco were present to witness the contract completion.

Although Koundé's existing deal wasn't due to expire until 2027, both the player and club were motivated to finalize fresh terms before the 2025–26 campaign begins.

"I'm delighted to extend my stay," Koundé stated. "The negotiations went smoothly. The club and I shared the same vision."

The defender had publicly expressed his intention to secure a new contract during Barcelona's summer preseason activities. Despite speculation linking him with Manchester City, Koundé remained committed to his Barcelona future.

"There are no limits to what we can achieve. We have the privilege of competing for every trophy each season. I hope this year brings even greater success," Koundé added.

Barcelona achieved a clean sweep of domestic honors during Hansi Flick's first season as manager, defeating Real Madrid to capture La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. Koundé was instrumental in all three victories; the 26-year-old featured in 53 matches throughout 2024–25 and netted the decisive extra-time goal that secured the Copa del Rey triumph.

That particular moment remains vivid in Koundé's memory when reflecting on his Barcelona highlights: "Clinching the league title against Espanyol, and naturally, the Copa del Rey final. Scoring in the 116th minute to win the trophy was truly special."

Barcelona enters this season determined to retain their trio of Spanish championships while pursuing continental success in the Champions League. The club will require Koundé at his peak performance to meet these ambitious targets. The French international emerged as one of Flick's most reliable and undervalued contributors last term, establishing himself as Spain's premier right-back.

"Each season I strive to elevate my game beyond the previous year. I hold myself to high standards. While we can enhance multiple aspects, if I had to prioritize one area, it would be reducing our goals conceded," Koundé explained.

Koundé and his Barcelona teammates have already launched their 2025–26 season positively, claiming a commanding 3–0 win against Mallorca. Flick's squad returns to action versus Levante this Saturday, August 23.