Barcelona’s euphoria following their dramatic El Clásico triumph over Real Madrid has been abruptly disrupted by unsettling developments behind the scenes. Just hours after lifting the Copa del Rey trophy in a fierce battle at the Bernabéu, tensions erupted in the Blaugrana dressing room—triggered by a bombshell revelation that Arsenal had submitted an official offer for one of the club’s most valuable players.
According to reports from El Nacional, Arsenal’s bid is for none other than Jules Koundé, a cornerstone of Hansi Flick’s tactical structure and a trusted leader within the Barcelona squad. This move, reportedly greenlit by club president Joan Laporta, has sent shockwaves through the team, particularly affecting teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal, who has emerged as one of Koundé’s closest allies on and off the pitch.
Koundé has been a key figure in Barça’s recent resurgence. His versatility, especially his capacity to operate as a right-back while maintaining defensive solidity, has given Flick’s side both flexibility and confidence. He isn’t just a defensive asset; he’s an emotional leader whose presence inspires calm and discipline in high-pressure matches.
The news of Laporta’s openness to a transfer—especially after the club’s monumental win over Real Madrid—has left many players feeling betrayed. Sources close to the dressing room reveal that Lamine Yamal was among the most vocal, allegedly confronting some executives and expressing deep concern about losing Koundé at such a pivotal moment in the season.
Barcelona now face Inter Milan in the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League, a match that could define their season. The timing of Arsenal’s offer—and the fact that it was reportedly taken seriously—has created a cloud of distraction over what should be a moment of focus and unity.
Koundé’s potential departure is not only a tactical loss. Young players like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong view him as a role model and mentor. Removing that influence could have a ripple effect on the harmony that Flick has worked tirelessly to build in the locker room.
Internally, Barcelona’s board is scrambling to manage the fallout. Negotiations have already begun to extend Koundé’s contract until 2030, with improved terms that reflect his increasing importance to the squad. However, the damage done by the premature talks with Arsenal may not be so easily undone.
For his part, Koundé is reportedly happy at Barcelona and sees himself flourishing under Flick’s tutelage. However, the mere consideration of a sale has understandably shaken his trust in the club’s long-term vision and commitment to its core players.
Laporta and the technical team are well aware that allowing Koundé to leave could symbolize a step backwards—an admission that even star players are vulnerable if the right financial offer comes in. For a club trying to rebuild its identity and return to European dominance, such a move could tarnish its message of resilience.
Lamine Yamal’s reaction reflects a deeper concern shared by many fans: Is the club putting financial gain ahead of sporting success? With Yamal himself becoming one of Europe’s brightest young stars, the thought of losing his mentors so early in his career is unsettling and could influence his own future outlook on the club.
Meanwhile, Flick is reportedly frustrated. Sources indicate the German tactician has communicated his disapproval to the board, emphasizing that Koundé is irreplaceable in the current system and that no available replacement would bring the same blend of maturity, tactical awareness, and unity.
If Barcelona intends to compete with Europe’s elite, retaining leaders like Koundé is non-negotiable. This isn’t just about one defender—it’s about sustaining momentum, protecting team chemistry, and reinforcing a culture of loyalty.
The mood in the dressing room is now one of unease, with several players reportedly demanding clarity from the club before the summer transfer window opens. Until Koundé’s future is officially secured, doubts will linger.
Securing his renewal would send a strong message—to the players, fans, and rivals alike—that Barcelona are no longer a selling club. That they are ready to build, not dismantle.
But until the contract is signed and publicized, the anxiety remains. Barcelona’s internal unity is being tested at the worst possible time—on the cusp of a Champions League final that could define a generation.
For a club that has already weathered years of turbulence, losing Koundé now would be more than a sporting setback. It would be a symbol of instability returning just when calm had begun to settle.
As Lamine Yamal and the rest of the squad prepare for Inter Milan, all eyes are on the boardroom. One decision could either lift the team into a new golden era—or plunge them back into chaos.
