Better late than never: Kounde finds 'little helpers' to prevent his tardiness

Even though Jules Kounde had already been an excellent player, Hansi Flick's arrival at Barcelona completely changed the defender's career, as the German tactician turned him into one of the best right-backs in the world. However, despite Kounde's exceptional performances throughout the season, Flick does not tolerate one of his particular shortcomings - tardiness.

Namely, the Frenchman has already been punished for being late for pre-game team meetings three times, as he was benched in La Liga clashes against Alaves, Espanyol, and Rayo Vallecano.

Jules 'The Latecomer' Kounde severely tests Flick's patience

Yet, it's been more than two months since Kounde's last "offence," and he hasn't been penalized since. Why? Because he found a perfect solution to his problem.

Namely, according to Mundo Deportivo, the 26-year-old asked some security personnel members - who accompany the team in each game and training session - to remind him of a meeting a quarter of an hour prior to its start so he could get there on time.

From this perspective, it's obviously worked, as Kounde's place in the XI has never been more secure. Moreover, this "arrangement" has also benefited Barca, as the defender scored the extra-time winner against Real Madrid, bringing the Catalans the Copa del Rey trophy.

Still, he'll have to stick to this "improved behaviour" as long as he can, given that Flick won't hesitate to bench him again if he commits another mistake, and no goal or trophy will save him from the German's disciplinary measures.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - SEMI-FINALS

First leg

Tuesday

Arsenal - PSG 0-1 (0-1)

/Dembele 4/

Wednesday

22:00: (1.65) Barcelona (4.30) Inter (5.20)

***odds are subject to change***