'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,/9j/2wBDAAYEBQYFBAYGBQYHBwYIChAKCgkJChQODwwQFxQYGBcUFhYaHSUfGhsjHBYWICwgIyYnKSopGR8tMC0oMCUoKSj/2wBDAQcHBwoIChMKChMoGhYaKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCj/wgARCAAFAAoDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYH/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQP/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAJfcgt//xAAeEAABBAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAADAQIEBQYSABEhQf/aAAgBAQABPwCSSRcDt8jIZjLQVCwylUaEXwgtetvEX5tzEcIqJeKUsmTEhlOaEEhCOjM7c5Roqrz/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhAAP/2gAIAQIBAT8AxC//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAP/2gAIAQMBAT8A0BBv/9k='%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Barcelona star Jules Kounde has shared a jovial post on social media addressing manager Hansi Flick's treatment of him for being late to training. The German tactician, who is known for his punctuality, has reportedly reprimanded the Frenchman for showing up late on multiple occasions.
Kounde joined Barca from Sevilla for a reported €50 million fee in July 2022. Originally a centre-back, he was played out of position as a right-back by erstwhile manager Xavi.
Initially, Kounde publicly spoke out about his unwillingness to operate as a full-back; however, he eventually grew into the role. Under Flick's tutelage, the 26-year-old has blossomed into one of the best right-backs in world football.
He made 53 appearances in the 2024-25 campaign, racking up four goals and eight assists. He played a crucial role in helping the Catalan side win the domestic treble (LaLiga, Copa del Rey and Supercopa de Espana) and reach the UEFA Champions League semi-final.
Trending
Despite his incredible performances on the pitch, Kounde had some punctuality issues off the field. He was punished multiple times by Flick during the 2024-25 season for showing up late to training.
The German manager left him out of his starting lineup for games against Deportivo Alaves, RCD Espanyol and Rayo Vallecano. Although the punishment may seem severe, the French defender has never complained or admonished the manager publicly.
In his recent Instagram story, Kounde is seen taking the whole situation in a lighter vein. The story contained a quote from American TV host Steve Harvey, which read (via Barca Universal):
"People who are late are likely to live longer and be more successful."
Referencing the post, Kounde jovially added a comment:
"Good morning! Awesome news."
Barcelona's first game of the 2025-26 campaign will be a pre-season friendly against Japanese side Vissel Kobe on July 27.
Barcelona considering sale of €60 million-rated defender amid Nico Williams links - Reports
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo (via GOAL), Barcelona are contemplating the sale of star defender Ronald Araujo.
The Uruguayan has been part of Barca's first team setup for five seasons, making 175 appearances across all competitions. He played a crucial role in the Catalan giants' title-winning LaLiga campaign in the 2022/23 season, but was never available for selection regularly.
He suffered a host of different injuries which have kept him sidelined for over 85 games through his Barcelona tenure. He sat out the majority of the 2024-25 campaign with a hamstring injury, making just 25 appearances across all competitions.
According to the aforementioned source, Barca are seriously considering parting ways with the Uruguayan despite having signed a contract extension until 2031 in January. The defender supposedly has a €60 million release clause that is only active between July 1 and July 15.
To comply with financial fair play stipulations, the Catalans need to clear up a significant amount of salary space and raise funds. If they manage to settle their balances, they can focus on making a move for their top transfer target, Athletic Club's Nico Williams.
