Barcelona defender Jules Kounde voiced his anger at the timing of the [team’s clash with Osasuna on Thursday night](https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2025/3/27/24393729/barcelona-osasuna-la-liga-final-score-match-report-recap-reactions).
The two teams played their rearranged La Liga match just days after many players had returned from international duty.
The timing of the match saw Barcelona leave [Ronald Araujo and Raphinha out](https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2025/3/26/24394345/hansi-flick-confirms-ronald-araujo-and-raphinha-out-of-barcelona-clash-with-osasuna), and Kounde says it was disrespectful to the players.
> “I’m angry about the date. It’s not normal. We’ve talked about the schedule many times; we play too many games. I know there are people who don’t understand. I consider myself lucky to make a living from our passion, but it’s disrespectful, and not just to the club,” he said after the game.
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> “I’m also talking about Osasuna, who had injuries, like Budimir, who I faced and didn’t get the rest he needed. The club doesn’t matter: Osasuna , Barcelona, Real Madrid ... It’s a lack of respect for the players, not just the clubs. We’re not machines, and to play our game and put on a good performance, we need rest.
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> “All institutions, not just LaLiga, have to understand this. They can’t set dates however they want... you understand me, right? We have to listen to our voice. We’re the main players, and they can’t do whatever they want.”
Kounde’s not the first to voice his frustration at the timing of the game and the current fixture congestion - but is anyone listening?