Jules Kounde’s ironman streak of 104 games without rest finally came to a close last night as Barca clashed with Mallorca. It was a long, impeccable run, as the Frenchman has been a real pillar of resistance for Barca. In this article, let’s discuss the right-back’s fitness, sacrifice, and football’s modern demands on players.
Flick has finally Rested Jules Kounde: It was Much-Needed
Hansi Flick has finally ended Jules Kounde’s 104-game streak of consecutive games, and it surely was calculated. Kounde has been a real heartbeat for Barca at the right. Since Nov 2023, the Frenchman’s presence has meant stability for the Catalans. He has suffered no injuries and no dips in form, just relentless consistency and hard work. What an example he has been!
Hansi Flick’s call to rest him against Mallorca has given Kounde a much-needed rest. Even though he has an elite fitness and body, he, too, deserves some rest. After all, he has proven to be a human shield for Barca and a relentless attacker. The clasico is also on the horizon and a fresh Kounde will be crucial to stop Vinicius Jr. at the right.
Kounde’s Fantastic Fitness: An Anti-Neymar Example
Kounde’s 104-game run is a manifesto to his supreme fitness levels. The Frenchman loves to take care of himself and has a superb routine. He works out twice a day, has a disciplined sleep schedule, and eats healthily. Kounde’s stamina, fitness, and longevity are not an accident; they’re the result of his hard work and strict discipline.
It’s a prominent example for players like Neymar, who possessed the heights of talent but zero discipline. Kounde’s discipline shames him, as Neymar’s lifestyle has become a modern football culture and has ruined many youngsters. Thus, after a short, dazzling run, Neymar burned out. It’s sad, but it’s the truth. Hard work always beats talent, and Kounde is a living example.
Kounde has Redefined his Legacy at Barca
Jules Kounde is an extremely talented yet under-rated right back. Back in 2022 when he joined Barcelona from Sevilla, he was a natural center-back. Fast-forward to 2025: he is one of most consistent and complete right-backs in football, and is also France’s first-choice right back. Although Kounde wanted to be a center-back at Barca, he did not sulk on Xavi’s requirements from him and played for the team.
And he continued the trend under Flick too, and now has transformed into a fantastic right-back. This marathon of 104-game was at the right back position and it shows how versatile the Frenchman is. He played out of his comfort zone, listened to his coach and embraced the grind. That is how, my dear readers, great players are forged.