Jules Kounde reportedly expressed frustration over Robert Lewandowski's late substitution during Barcelona's Champions League elimination by Inter.
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Kounds shocked by Lewandowski’s late substitution
Forward returned early from injury against Inter Milan
Barcelona eyeing long-term striker replacement
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱AFPWHAT HAPPENED?
According to Barsa Reservat, a Catalunya Radio podcast, Kounde, who missed the second leg against Inter Milan because of a thigh injury suffered in the first game, made a quiet voyage to the San Siro where fans on a commercial flight spotted him.
Kounde, watching from the stands, reportedly said he was surprised by Hansi Flick's choice to sub Lewandowski on during stoppage time, right before Inter scored their equaliser to make it 3-3 on the night and 6-6 on aggregate. After their last successful campaign in 2015, the Catalan club's decade-long wait for the Champions League continues.
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Though he received medical clearance only one day before the vital second leg, Lewandowski had just returned from a muscle injury that was expected to sideline him for over three weeks. Despite being Barça's leading scorer, the Polish striker appeared off the pace and contributed little during his brief extra-time cameo, as he was visibly struggling to make contact with the ball.
According to multiple sources, including and , Kounde was overheard saying: "I don’t understand why Lewandowski played; he shouldn’t have been on the pitch in that condition."
Seated near Joao Felix, now on loan at AC Milan, Kounde observed the game and was clearly puzzled by Flick's late tactical change.
Getty Images SportDID YOU KNOW?
Despite being Barcelona's top goal scorer this season with 40 goals in 49 appearances, Lewandowski has faced criticism over his form and fitness in recent months, especially from the fans of the club. Adding to the tension, reports from suggest Barcelona eyeing Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez as a long-term replacement for the Polish striker, signalling a possible change at the top of their forward line.
WHAT'S NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
Barcelona's exit from the Champions League leaves them with only domestic games to concentrate on as they look to beat Real Madrid to the La Liga crown. Having already won the Copa del Rey, Flick's men now face a potential title decider in El Clasico against their bitter rivals this weekend.