Jules Kounde has been a standout performer for Barcelona on the right side of their defence this season, although he has had off-field troubles that have had him in Hansi Flick’s bad books. Specifically, he has been noted for tardiness on multiple occasions, and every time, his punishment has been for him to be dropped from the starting line-up in the Catalans’ next match.
Kounde has been late for pre-match meetings on three occasions this season, against Alaves, Espanyol and Rayo Vallecano. After the third time, Sport say that Barcelona officials sat down to express their concern at the trend, and it was made clear to the French defender that this could not continue going forward.
As per the report, Kounde responded to the situation in a humble and self-critical manner. He told the coaching staff that he completely understood that he deserved to be dropped on all three occasions because the rules that have been established by Flick are there to be complied with.
Kounde has reportedly stated that his tardiness has been because of poor time management skills, rather than a lack of respect for Flick and his teammates. In order to improve, he has asked Barcelona officials to help him keep notified of meeting times, so that he does not miss any more in the future. And the club’s response to this has been expressed with pride, as they are delighted to see him make such a conscious effort to improve.
Barcelona are very happy with Kounde, and this is made clear by the fact that they are planning to offer him a new contract in the coming months. His current deal ends in 2027, but club officials are desperate to ensure that he does not leave anytime soon – and at this stage, it would be a surprise if he went elsewhere.
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