The Rule Koundé Broke With Flick
Jules Koundé faced a particular situation under the strict direction of Hansi Flick at Barcelona. Unlike Xavi Hernández's approach, which involved escalating fines for each minute a player was late—with the money going to charity or team activities—Flick enforces a stricter and more straightforward rule: if a player is late to training, they automatically lose the chance to play in the next match.
This disciplinary approach reflects Flick's structured and punctual nature, typical of German coaches who place a high value on timeliness and commitment. In Koundé’s case, arriving late to a practice led to his immediate exclusion from the next game, which was the match against Alavés. Flick’s firmness aims to reinforce seriousness and responsibility within the team, sending a clear message that time and punctuality are essential elements for collective success.