Jules Kounde has been one of many standout performers for Barcelona this season, showcasing outstanding bodily power and endurance.
Regardless of the staff’s hectic schedule, Kounde has been a key determine, taking part in essentially the most minutes of any Barcelona participant.
He has featured in all 33 official matches for the membership, with the one exception being a quick stint in its place within the La Liga encounters in opposition to Alaves and Espanyol.
Most used participant
His absence from the beginning line-up within the match in opposition to Alaves raised eyebrows, particularly when it was revealed that Hansi Flick had utilized a strict inside staff rule.
This rule, which had by no means been enforced earlier than, noticed Kounde dropped to the bench as a consequence of arriving late to an activation coaching session and the pre-match tactical briefing.
Jules Kounde has performed essentially the most minutes for Barcelona. (Picture by Angel Martinez/Getty Photos)
When it comes to taking part in time, Kounde has logged a formidable 2,722 minutes this season, surpassing each Raphinha (2,627 minutes) and Pau Cubarsi (2,560 minutes).
Whereas Raphinha has featured in 32 video games, resting in a single in opposition to Barbastro, Cubarsi has performed all 33 matches, although with barely extra rotation in his appearances.
An everyday for Flick
Kounde has been an everyday starter in each the Champions League and the Spanish Tremendous Cup, together with his solely tactical substitution coming within the match in opposition to Benfica.
Throughout that recreation, Kounde was changed within the remaining quarter-hour as Barcelona switched to a three-centre-back formation in an try to show the sport round, which finally resulted in an exhilarating 5-4 victory.
Defensively, Kounde has been rock stable, providing distinctive stability on the again for Barcelona. His contributions have prolonged past simply defensive duties, as he has additionally made a notable affect going ahead.
The Frenchman has scored three targets and supplied seven assists, exhibiting that he’s taking part in an important position on each ends of the pitch.
Regardless of initially expressing a reluctance to play on this place, Kounde appears to be thriving in his present position, persevering with to develop and enhance because the season progresses.