Jules Kounde hopes to improve despite 'fantastic' Barcelona performance | OneFootball

Jules Kounde impressed during Barcelona's 5-2 win over Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League on Wednesday evening, registering three second-half assists.

The Catalan giants cruised to a comfortable victory in Serbia, cementing their position as one of Europe's most feared outfits this season. French defender Kounde ran the show at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, setting up three stunning goals for his teammates.

An early Inigo Martinez strike, followed by a Robert Lewandowski brace and two further efforts from Raphinha and Fermin Lopez secured Barca's 5-2 scoreline in the continental competition, placing them amongst the top six in the Champions League's new-look league format.

Barca's star of the evening was quick to praise his team after the clash, admitting that he always hopes to improve on his showings.

Barcelona enjoyed a strong night in Serbia / PEDJA MILOSAVLJEVIC/GettyImages

"I think we played a good game, especially in the second half, where we raised the level with more control," Kounde told reporters. "On a personal level I'm very happy, it's a part of my game that I focus a lot on because I have to improve.

"I also want to thank my teammates, who are the ones who score the goals. I have more room for improvement.

"[Winning] is the objective and it is every year when you are at a club like Barca. The season is long and we have not won anything yet, but you have to relax and continue enjoying yourself."

Barca boss Hansi Flick was full of praise for the defender, highlighting his influence over the rest of the Spanish squad.

"He's a fantastic example for the squad," Flick claimed. "His performance levels are rising, and he's extremely focused. Today's [Wednesday's] assists show his quality, he's a true professional."

Barca are set to return to action on Sunday when they face Real Sociedad in La Liga.