For a participant extensively thought to be one of many best defensive skills on the earth, it would come as a shock to listen to him specific ambivalence concerning the recreation that introduced him fame. But, a Barcelona star not too long ago shared candid ideas about his diminishing love for soccer.
Over the previous two years, Jules Kounde has developed into considered one of Barcelona’s most reliable gamers. Initially often called a central defender, he has excelled in a brand new position as a right-back. This transition, overseen by former Blaugrana supervisor Xavi Hernandez, has allowed the French worldwide to showcase his versatility and develop a status as among the finest in his place.
Within the present season, the Frenchman has appeared in 15 of the membership’s 17 matches throughout all competitions. His contributions have been very important, with one objective and 4 assists, and he has change into a vital a part of the squad underneath supervisor Hansi Flick. Nevertheless, regardless of his on-field success, Kounde has revealed a shift in his private connection to the game.
Kounde: “It was my ardour”
Talking on The Bridge podcast, Kounde admitted that his love for soccer has modified over time. “I’d be mendacity if I stated I like soccer as a lot as earlier than. Earlier than, it was my ardour. Now it’s my job. Once I began, my life off the sphere was secondary,” he stated.
Kounde attributed this evolution to his rising pursuits outdoors of soccer, together with a need to offer for his household and assist others. Whereas he doesn’t see himself turning into a coach because of the stress concerned, he finds the connection between gamers and coaches fascinating.
“Generally individuals don’t perceive that we’ve our personal standards and objectives in a recreation,” he defined. “Once I play full-back, I’m judged for issues that aren’t my strengths. I perceive that I’ve modified positions, and that requires different issues. I’m engaged on it.”
Fundamental problem: Strict self-discipline underneath Flick?
Whereas Kounde continues to excel for Barcelona, studies counsel some friction with supervisor Hansi Flick over the German’s uncompromising self-discipline. The German coach’s strict time-keeping insurance policies have seen the defender penalized on a number of events.
In keeping with Diario AS, Kounde was late by mere minutes for workforce conferences on three events, resulting in him being dropped from the beginning lineup in opposition to Espanyol and Deportivo Alaves. Flick reportedly advised gamers, “Once I say 13:30 hours, it’s neither 13:29 nor 13:31. Arriving late, even by a minute, is a scarcity of respect in your teammates”. These situations spotlight the extreme strain skilled gamers face to fulfill not solely bodily but in addition behavioral requirements.
Regardless of his evolving emotions towards soccer and reported challenges with Flick, Kounde’s performances have been stellar. His change to right-back has allowed him to adapt and shine in new methods, making him a cornerstone of Barcelona’s success. The workforce presently sits sixth within the Champions League standings, and Kounde’s contributions have been key to their competitiveness.
At simply 25 years previous, Kounde stays one of many Catalans’ most respected gamers, demonstrating resilience and professionalism whilst he navigates private {and professional} challenges.
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