Jules Kounde faces ultimatum from Flick after repeated lateness - reports
FC Barcelona continues to push for La Liga under Hansi Flick, but tensions are rising in the locker room. One key issue involves Jules Kounde, a player once vital to the defense but now facing punishment from the German coach, according to El Nacional.
In the match against Rayo Vallecano, Kounde was benched, not for his performance, but due to an internal disciplinary issue. Sources close to the team claim Kounde arrived late to the pre-match briefing, a recurring issue. Flick, known for his strictness regarding punctuality, immediately dropped Kounde from the starting lineup.
This wasn’t the first time the French defender had been late, and Flick has made it clear that another mistake could cost him his spot permanently. Kounde’s situation is now precarious, especially with Hector Fort performing well, making his place in the defense no longer guaranteed.
Flick’s strict stance has divided the locker room, with some supporting the need for discipline, while others feel the punishment is too harsh. Kounde is aware of the stakes and knows he must change his attitude to remain a key player for Barca. The ball is now in his court: if he can stay punctual, he may regain his starting spot, but any further lapses could see his role further diminished.
