Can Jules Kounde force his way back into Hansi Flick’s starting XI at Barcelona?

Jules Kounde has acknowledged that a dip in form is responsible for him losing his starting spot at Barcelona under manager Hansi Flick. Speaking over the weekend, the French defender admitted his performances were below standard, while expressing confidence that hard work will help him earn back his place in the lineup.

Writer Gill Clark notes that convincing Flick may prove difficult after Kounde received just three starts so far this season. Eric Garcia currently serves as Barcelona's first-choice right-back, although Kounde recently featured for France during the Nations League against Turkey and Belgium.