French defender Jules Kounde’s unexpected omission from Barcelona’s starting lineup against Deportivo Alaves raised eyebrows on Sunday, especially considering his pivotal role in coach Hansi Flick’s defensive structure.
Instead, 18-year-old Hector Fort got the nod, a surprising yet calculated decision that left many questioning the manager’s reasoning.
According to Transfermarkt, Kounde, typically a fixture in La Blaugrana’s starting XI, has started every match for the club this season. Read more: https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1618123-reason-barcelona-coach-hansi-flick-dropped-form-star-emerges-alaves-win/
When the former Sevilla star was benched, the move came as a surprise to many, particularly after Flick had assured in his pre-match press conference that he wouldn’t shuffle his squad.
However, given Kounde’s constant presence in the lineup, the decision, while surprising, seemed plausible.
Despite the Frenchman’s absence, Barcelona didn’t miss a beat, comfortably cruising to a 3-0 victory, courtesy of a clinical Robert Lewandowski hat-trick.
The smooth victory suggested that the defensive reshuffle didn’t disrupt the team’s cohesion, with Fort slotting in seamlessly....Read Full Article [Click Here>]
However, reports from Diario Sport have claimed there was more behind Kounde’s benching than simple squad rotation.
According to the outlet, Flick’s decision was disciplinary rather than tactical.
The French international had allegedly been late to a pre-match team meeting, prompting the coach to take action.
Flick had previously warned his players about punctuality, and Kounde’s tardiness left the manager no choice but to impose a sanction.
Kounde eventually made an appearance late in the match, replacing young Fort.
When questioned about the defender’s exclusion, Flick simply stated, as quoted by Barca Blaugranes: ‘He has been a substitute because he is resting’.
