Jules Koundé faces Pierre Kalulu competition as Barcelona minutes are limited, could he lose France place under Zinédine Zidane? | OneFootball

Jules Koundé's long-held starting role for France looks vulnerable in the Zinédine Zidane era after a difficult last season and frequent bench duty at Barcelona. A starter for more than four years, L'Équipe notes that his place could even be on the line after Monday's meeting with Belgium at 20:45.

In the past 14 days almost everything around Les Bleus has changed, from training methods and warm-ups to menus and schedules. Amid the upheaval, a few routines remain, and Koundé's early-morning sessions are among them.

Nearing 28, the Barcelona full-back sticks to a rigorous personal programme. With 57 caps and an international journey that has not always been smooth, the former Bordeaux defender understands how quickly status shifts.

Competition from Pierre Kalulu and limited minutes at club level add to the pressure. Technical concerns are part of the discussion, further sharpening debate over his place.

The Belgium test could accelerate decisions, but nothing is settled. For now, his habits endure even as the Zidane reset reshapes France's everyday work.

Source: L'Équipe

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