What You Need to Know
French footballer Jules Koundé, currently with Barcelona, was recently seen playing barefoot with children in the streets of Bénin during his winter vacation. The defender engaged in a charitable project aimed at supporting local youth and addressing poverty in the region, reflecting his commitment to giving back to his parents’ homeland.
Africa. Jules Koundé, a defender for Barcelona, recently participated in a match with a group of children during his winter vacation in Bénin, the country from which his parents originate.
A video circulated on social media showing Koundé (27 years old) playing barefoot with the children on a dirt field.
The account that shared the video on X commented, “Koundé plays football in the street with young children in Bénin.”
Koundé took advantage of the Christmas holiday to travel to Bénin to participate in a charitable project, according to the Spanish newspaper “Mundo Deportivo.” He aimed to provide humanitarian support in his parents’ homeland and help residents facing vulnerability and poverty.
The French international participated in a project aimed at unleashing the creative potential of youth, spending over three hours with 50 boys and girls.
He also presented the children with gifts featuring the colors of FC Barcelona.
Koundé is considered one of the key players for coach Hansi Flick, who relies heavily on him in most matches.
This season, Koundé has played 24 matches across all competitions for Barcelona, totaling 1,779 minutes, during which he scored three goals and provided two assists, according to the renowned website “Transfermarkt.”
After returning from vacation, the right-back and his team will kick off the new year (2026) with a fiery derby against Espanyol on January 3, as part of the 18th round of La Liga. In the same week, the team will travel to Saudi Arabia to compete for the Spanish Super Cup title.
Bénin, located in West Africa, has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its vibrant traditions. The country faces challenges such as poverty and limited access to education, prompting various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of its citizens. Many individuals and organizations work to provide support and resources to help uplift communities in need.
Jules Koundé’s visit highlights the importance of social responsibility among athletes, particularly those with ties to their ancestral countries. His involvement in local projects not only brings attention to the issues faced by the people of Bénin but also inspires others to contribute positively to their communities.
