by Jules Kounde has apologised for his ‘exaggerated’ celebration during Barcelona’s clash with Sevilla on Sunday evening.
Barcelona beat Kounde’s former team 3-0 thanks to goals from Jordi Alba, Gavi and Raphinha, but the 24-year-old came under fire for his actions.
Sevilla fans were furious with Kounde’s reaction to Alba’s opening goal – considering he spent three years at their club before signing for Barcelona last summer.
However, Kounde took to social media shortly after the game to apologise for his behaviour and wish his former club all ‘the best’.
The Frenchman said: ‘I was always grateful for the opportunity to wear the red and white jersey and for the love I received during my time there.
‘That is why I wanted to apologise for the goal celebration which, in a moment of euphoria, was exaggerated on my part.
The 24-year-old finished by saying: ‘I wish you the best, always.’
Kounde joined Barcelona from Sevilla in the 2022 summer transfer window – after being approached by several clubs, including Chelsea.
Kounde, whose competitive debut for Barcelona came in the 4-0 victory over Real Valladolid in August 2022, said it was an ‘easy choice’ to join Barcelona.
Kounde said Xavi was influential in his decision to join Barca and that the LaLiga giants can ‘attract anyone’ because of their stature.
After signing for Barcelona, Kounde said: ‘Barca is still a club able to attract anyone, and the manager was very important too.
‘He gave me a lot of confidence and I liked his way of approaching football. It was an easy choice for me because he gave me all that I was looking for.’
Barcelona are back in action on Sunday February 12 when they take on Villarreal at the historic Estadio de la Ceramica.
