Koundé says Flick's decision, not injury, cut his Barcelona playing time

Barcelona defender Jules Koundé said coach Hansi Flick decided his reduced playing time, citing a below-par last season rather than any injury.

• Koundé told a pre-match press conference with France that recovering his starting place is up to him.
• He said he accepts the situation as a challenge and must regain his usual level to earn minutes.
• Koundé said France coach Zinedine Zidane communicates closely with players on and off the pitch.
• He has played five matches for Barcelona this season across all competitions without a goal or assist.