Jules Koundé starts the season on the bench as Flick calls it a challenge

Jules Koundé has begun the season in a very different position from the one he occupied only a few months ago. The French defender is not currently a regular starter for Barcelona, as Hansi Flick confirmed before the trip to Valencia.

There is no suggestion of a disciplinary issue, a dispute with the coach or an attempt to sell the player. This is a sporting decision. It is still a significant one, however, because Koundé had previously appeared to be one of the most secure members of Barcelona’s defence. At this club, even stability occasionally comes with a short expiry date.

FLICK LEAVES THE DOOR OPEN

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Flick described Koundé as an “incredible professional” and praised his response to the situation. The coach also acknowledged that the defender has not started the new campaign as a first-choice player.

“It is a challenge for him,” Flick explained. “I know he can play at centre-back, although he prefers to play at full-back. His performances there during our first season were at the highest level. He is working very hard to return to his best.”

The message was supportive, but it was also clear. Previous performances, experience and reputation will not automatically put Koundé back in the starting XI. He must earn that position again.

THE HIERARCHY HAS CHANGED

Koundé has regularly operated on the right side of Barcelona’s defence, despite previously making it clear that he considers centre-back his natural position. Flick still sees him as an option in both roles, but the Frenchman no longer has an automatic claim to either one.

The coach did not announce a permanent hierarchy or identify a guaranteed starting right-back for the entire season. His comments nevertheless confirm that Koundé’s status has changed. The defender is now the one trying to convince the coaching staff that he deserves to return to the XI.

Competition for places is normal, particularly in a squad Flick believes has top quality. Pretending that nothing has changed simply because Koundé remains a major name would be less convincing. Flick was direct: the defender is not starting at present, but the way back remains open.

THE RESPONSE MUST COME ON THE PITCH

The trip to face Valencia at Mestalla could provide Koundé with another opportunity. Flick did not reveal whether the Frenchman would start, so his inclusion in the XI cannot be treated as a confirmed decision.

For now, the coach continues to trust the player’s ability and has publicly praised his attitude. Koundé’s task is straightforward, even if completing it may be less so: rediscover the level that made him such a reliable part of Flick’s first Barcelona side.

His reputation has not disappeared, but neither has the competition. At Barcelona, one may earn respect over an entire season and still have to earn a place again every weekend.