Jules Koundé admits his bench role at Barcelona and wants minutes

Jules Koundé, Barcelona’s right-sided defender, addressed the media ahead of Monday’s Nations League clash against Belgium (matchday 4) and acknowledged that he’s currently starting on the bench. Rather than complain, he said it was “a decision from my coach,” adding that he feels “very good physically,” with “no injury at all.”

Koundé pointed to the season before as the reason for fewer minutes: “If I’m getting less playing time, it’s because last season I was below my standards.” He framed it as a challenge: “It’s a consequence and a challenge that I accept willingly,” and stressed his focus on getting back his best form.

At club level, Eric García has edged him out at right back. With Zinedine Zidane in charge of France, Koundé started on September 25 against Turkey, but did not play against Belgium or Italy.