French media slam Barcelona star after France 4-0 Ukraine win

Jules Kounde was unable to play for FC Barcelona in their last game before the November international break against Celta Vigo due to a minor discomfort. His place in the starting lineup was taken by Eric Garcia, who played with a mask following a fractured nose.

Despite not having trained with his national teammates before the match, Kounde was named in the starting eleven by Didier Deschamps for the game against Ukraine at the Parc des Princes.

France won the game 4-0. Kylian Mbappe scored twice, including a Panenka-style penalty, while Olise and Ekitike added the other goals, securing France’s qualification for next year’s World Cup.

However, as SPORT has noted, Kounde did not have a convincing performance and faced criticism from the French media.

L’Equipe in particular highlighted that he looked out of shape and suggested that Malo Gusto, who replaced Kounde in the final minutes, offers more attacking threat. The discomfort that kept him out of the match against Celta Vigo may have also affected his performance against Ukraine.

Kounde’s form with Barcelona this season has been inconsistent. While he has played in all matches except the one against Celta, three of his appearances were from the bench.

With France already qualified for the World Cup and Kounde suspended for the upcoming qualifier against Azerbaijan, he will return to Barcelona early. This period of rest could allow him to fully recover and be ready for Barcelona’s next clash with Athletic Club on the 22nd of November.