Barcelona defender Jules Koundé acknowledged that his reduced role with the team at the start of this season is due to a technical decision by coach Hansi Flick, noting that his performance last season was below his usual standard.
The French national team is preparing to face Belgium tomorrow, Sunday, in the fourth matchday of the UEFA Nations League group stage.
Koundé said during the pre-match press conference: "My reduced role at Barcelona? I am not suffering from any injury; it is related to my coach's decision."
He added, "This is a result of last season, when I was below my usual level. It is a challenge I accept, and it is up to me to regain my form, because I know that when I am at my best, I can earn playing time."
He continued, "Zidane is a coach who is very close to his players and talks to us a lot both on and off the pitch. The coaching staff is always present to offer advice and help us improve."
He completed, "I have significant room for improvement in reducing my errors when handling the ball, and I can also be more capable of advancing forward."
He emphasized, "There has always been competition within the French national team, and the level is extremely high. I do not know if there are more competitors now compared to the past, but it is a source of motivation. The primary battle is with myself."
Koundé also praised his teammates Michael Olise and Mike Maignan, describing Olise as possessing great quality and technical ease, along with the ability to work for the team, finish attacks, and create plays.
As for Maignan, he commended his personality, which always strives for perfection, and his attention to detail, adding: "I am very happy to see him performing at this level, and we all recognize his quality."
France tops the group standings with 7 points, one point ahead of both Belgium and Italy.
