Koundé reveals his secrets: injuries, Ballon d'Or and the challenge against PSG

Jules Koundé missed the last month of competition in 2024/25 with FC Barcelona due to an injury to his left thigh. Although the Frenchman completed the pre-season without problems, he has not yet recovered the brilliant level of the previous year and, therefore, was a substitute in the first two matchdays of LaLiga 25/26.

In the run-up to France's debut in the World Cup qualifier (Friday against Ukraine), the Barça right-back acknowledged that, prior to the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan, he should have rested more to avoid breaking down.

"There were things I could have done better during my injury, but it was a consequence of the Copa del Rey final, which we finished late, we were happy and we didn't sleep well that day. Then it got worse when we played against Inter. It was frustrating, but I have recovered well now. These things happen and are inevitable," he explained.

Koundé sets his sights on the calendar again to curb the number of injuries

Although he missed Barcelona's last six games last season, the '23' reached 4,423 minutes of action spread over 53 games. In this regard, he again criticized the European calendar, as the wear and tear from so many games increases the risk and number of injuries.

"Everyone in football is affected by this system. Even in life, when we receive something in large doses, we get tired. So I think we have to change some things," said the Parisian.

Jules only played his first game as a starter in the 25/26 season on Sunday in Vallecas. Although he was on the field for 90 minutes, he did not have an easy night against Rayo (1-1), like the rest of the Azulgrana defense. 

The Ballon d'Or and the rematch with PSG from Koundé's perspective

Jules Koundé and Lamine Yamal in a Liga match with Barça

On the other hand, Koundé was again asked about Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé's favoritism for the Ballon d'Or. The 26-year-old defender is an authorized voice with the privilege of sharing a dressing room with the two forwards at his club and national team.

"They both deserve it. They had an extraordinary season, with trophies to top it off. Being a teammate of both is difficult. I'm not the one who votes and there are arguments in favor of both," began the Azulgrana '23'. In that sense, he highlighted the best of the two 'cracks'.

"I am very happy to be with Lamine, to see how he is guiding us. Ousmane has reached a kind of fullness, he is playing his best football, with the statistics. May the best one win," said the full-back.

In addition, Jules did not hide the excitement that being able to face Dembélé and PSG again in the Champions League generates in him. The defender, although he was formed in the Girondis de Bordeaux academy, was born in the French capital.

"During the holidays, many people told me that they were looking forward to this match in last season's Champions League final, but we didn't make it. In addition, historically, there have been great matches and points in common between both teams," argued Koundé.

Barça will be at home in the match scheduled for Tuesday, October 1, which adds an extra ingredient of excitement for the Culés. Along with the home debut in the tournament, with luck, the fans will be able to accompany the Azulgrana team back at the Spotify Camp Nou.