Jules Kounde has revealed a deep sense of empathy and admiration for his new teammate Marcus Rashford, who recently joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United. In a candid pre-match interview ahead of Barça’s preseason clash against FC Seoul, the French defender opened up about Rashford’s personality, his adaptation process, and the supportive role he’s playing in helping the Englishman settle into life in Catalonia.
“It’s good to see him smiling again,” Kounde said. “He’s cheerful on the pitch, always positive in training, and that’s a good sign. You can tell he’s beginning to feel at home.” The defender, known for his calm demeanor and composure on the ball, appeared visibly excited about the energy Rashford brings to the squad.
According to Kounde, the pair have bonded not just over football, but through shared personality traits. “He reminds me a lot of myself,” Kounde admitted. “We’re both a bit introverted, not the loudest in the room, but once we’re on the pitch, everything changes. That’s where we feel most alive.”
Rashford’s arrival in Barcelona raised eyebrows earlier this summer. The move came after a difficult season at Manchester United, where the 27-year-old forward struggled to find consistent form and faced mounting pressure from fans and pundits. A fresh start in Spain, however, seems to be breathing new life into his career.
Kounde has stepped up as a mentor of sorts, especially as one of the few English-speaking players in the Barcelona dressing room. “Since I speak English, I try to help him as best I can,” he said. “But honestly, the whole team has welcomed him. That’s the Barça spirit—we look after each other.”
This camaraderie is evident on the pitch. Rashford, who has featured regularly during the club’s pre-season tour in Asia, has already shown flashes of brilliance, impressing both fans and head coach Hansi Flick. His explosive pace, creative runs, and vision in the final third have added a new dimension to the team’s attack.
Flick himself praised Rashford recently, describing him as “an excellent addition” and a “versatile forward who brings depth behind Lewandowski.” The German manager has also hinted that Rashford is not just here to warm the bench. “He has the quality to compete,” Flick said. “We have a long season ahead and will need every option available.”
The opportunity to learn in a new environment under a tactical mastermind like Flick could prove pivotal in reviving Rashford’s career. With players like Kounde actively supporting his growth, the Englishman is set up for a smoother transition than most new arrivals at the Camp Nou.
Former Barça star Rivaldo has also spoken positively about Rashford, suggesting that the former United forward will “earn his place” in the squad. “He has everything—pace, experience, intelligence. It’s only a matter of time before he starts making the difference,” the Brazilian legend said.
As the team gears up for their next friendly against FC Seoul, all eyes will be on Rashford once again. With every minute on the pitch, he seems to grow in confidence, and his chemistry with teammates like Kounde could be the catalyst that propels him back into elite form.
The Barcelona project, especially under Flick’s leadership, is placing a strong emphasis on unity, adaptability, and intelligent rotation. Rashford’s story is just beginning, but with players like Kounde watching his back and helping him feel at home, the future looks promising for the Englishman in Blaugrana colours.