Barcelona defender reveals the secret behind his success – ‘It becomes a habit’

Barcelona’s Jules Kounde has been an indispensable member of the team under Hansi Flick, and the only cases when he did not start a game have been through some form of punishment.

The player has adapted wonderfully to become one of the world’s best right-backs and has also conjured up a great understanding with Lamine Yamal on the right flank, making it a deadly weapon for the Blaugrana.

Kounde’s speciality, however, is his impeccable fitness record and training regimen that keeps him in top shape at all times despite playing week in and week out at the highest level.

Kounde’s interview

Speaking in a programme hosted by The Bridge via Mundo Deportivo, the Barcelona defender spoke at length about his rigid fitness regime and how he saw it to be non-negotiable.

“I wanted to optimize my performance. It’s a need that you create and, if you don’t do it, you don’t feel good,” he began.

“In the end, it becomes a habit and you must follow it because you get results,” he added.

The centre-back turned full-back then spoke on how it was always critical to be alert on the field and why even a small moment of complacency could prove costly.

“It’s not good to face games thinking that you’re too good or that it will be easy, and even less if you’re a defender. You lose the mark and in ten seconds you cost your team a goal.”

Kounde was then asked about how it was to play as a right-back despite traditionally being a central defender, to which he said,

“I understand that I have changed position and that requires other things. I’m working on it.”

When asked if he sees himself as a manager after retiring from the game, the Barcelona defender denied the possibility firmly.

“I don’t see myself as a coach. But I see the player-trainer relationships as very interesting. It’s too much stress. Being a technician is very complicated.”

Finally, Kounde spoke on how playing football as a hobby and as a career were different and the emotional struggle that came with it.

“I would be lying to you if I told you that I like soccer as much as before. It used to be my career. Now it’s my job. When I started, my life outside the field was secondary.”