Hansi Flick has highlighted his frustration with a pivotal defender, hinting at potential changes if standards don’t improve soon.
The defensive frailty shown on big European nights has amplified scrutiny, especially as the club chases multiple trophies and can ill afford costly lapses.
Yet, despite worries over form and focus, the coaching staff remains determined to back him and trust he will rediscover his previous level.
That player is Jules Koundé, whose regression compared to last season has been quietly but clearly acknowledged within the dressing room, as reported by Diario Sport.
Once hailed as one of Barcelona’s most reliable performers, the Frenchman’s current campaign has been marked by uneven concentration and less imposing one‑v‑one defending, even if there have been no glaring individual errors on a weekly basis.
Staff admit his defensive solidity has slipped, but they insist he will continue as first choice ahead of João Cancelo, underlining how highly they still rate his overall contribution.
Hansi Flick’s good relationship with Koundé is central to this stance, with the German coach convinced the defender can click back into top gear as the season reaches its decisive stretch.
Rather than punishing him with a spell on the bench, the idea is to play him through the slump, using continuity and confidence to restore his best timing in duels and his influence in build‑up.
With Barcelona eyeing a potential quadruple, they believe Koundé’s versatility and experience in high‑pressure environments could yet prove decisive.
At the same time, there is recognition that alternatives like Cancelo remain vital pieces of the puzzle if standards do not rise quickly.
For now, though, Barcelona’s message is clear: a key defender may be underperforming, but the club is standing by him, betting that renewed focus and trust will bring back the version of Koundé who once anchored the backline with authority.
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