French defender Jules Koundé was significantly late to the team meeting before the match, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed.
Many were surprised to see Barcelona’s starting lineup against Rayo Vallecano. Where was Jules Koundé? There had been no reports of an injury. Later, the reason for his absence from the starting XI was revealed—he was disciplined for breaking team rules. Hansi Flick didn’t hesitate to admit that the French defender was being punished for his lack of discipline.
In Monday’s La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano, Koundé was brought on as a substitute in the 66th minute. Barcelona secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty, temporarily taking them to the top of the league table.
Koundé has been a key figure for Barcelona this season, starting 34 of the team’s 37 matches. However, for the second time this season, he was benched due to disciplinary issues.
After the match, Flick explained his decision in the press conference.
“Before a match, we have two or three scheduled events, including meetings. These are very important for the players. It’s not something too difficult to do. It’s not just about me; it’s about respecting the team, the club, and the fans.”
“I don’t want to say too much because I want to speak with him first. But yes, he was very late. We have clear rules here, and that’s why he wasn’t in the starting XI today.”
This isn’t the first time Koundé has been penalized for tardiness. Back in October, Flick also left him out of the starting lineup against Alavés for the same reason. The Barcelona coach is known for his strict discipline regarding punctuality, which is why he enforces this rule. In fact, last month, Flick benched goalkeeper Iñaki Peña in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal for the exact same offense—being late to a team meeting.
