What happened? Flick gives Jules Koundé a harsh ultimatum

Barcelona’s starting defender Jules Koundé was left on the bench in yesterday’s match against Rayo Vallecano.

Before the game, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick stated that Koundé’s absence from the starting lineup was due to an internal decision. Later, it was revealed that the defender was being disciplined for arriving late to a team meeting before the match. But that’s not the end of the story.

Details. According to El Nacional, this was far from Koundé’s first late arrival. Flick has reportedly grown frustrated with the defender’s repeated tardiness to pre-match tactical meetings.

A serious conversation took place between the coach and the player, during which the Frenchman was given a stern ultimatum. Flick warned Koundé that if he is late again, he will lose his spot in the starting lineup for an extended period.

Flick’s decision sparked mixed reactions in the dressing room. While some players believe that rules apply to everyone and must be respected, others feel that Flick was too harsh on Koundé and that the punishment was excessive.

Reminder. This is only the third time this season that Koundé has been left out of Barcelona’s starting XI. In 36 matches this season, he has registered 3 goals and 7 assists.