The Barcelona star in three strikes with Hansi Flick – was abandoned on all three occasions
star of Barcelona Jules Kounde he has been almost universally praised this season, most recently for providing three assists in one game against Crvena Zvezda in the Champions League. Manager Hansi Flick also told the media that he “never had a player like him”, but that did not stop the Frenchman from getting on the wrong side of Flick.
Famously Kounde was dropped against Alaves for being late to their pre-match meeting, with Hector Fort starting instead. On that occasion, he was four minutes late, but AS Diary explain that the first time happened during the pre-season. “Today, you didn't start,” Flick told Kounde in front of an unbeaten Barcelona team.
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Many believed that Fort's presence during the Barcelona derby against Espanyol was down to the rotation, but apparently it was also because of his tardiness. On that occasion, he was only a minute late. “When I say 1:30 p.m., it's not 1:29 p.m. or 1:31 p.m.,” Flick said on that occasion.
Flick he is certainly keen to send his message, and it looks like Kounde is sitting on the bench until he gets it. Kounde will benefit from his form being so strong this season and a lack of options – some of the midfield players could explain how intense the competition for places is. It's a sign of Flick's strict disciplinary code, even if the narrative is about how personable it is.
