- Robert Lewandowski has been a key player in Barcelona’s success under Hansi Flick, scoring 23 goals in 21 games this season.
- Lewandowski’s lethal form has helped Barcelona top the Spanish league and rise to third in the Champions League standings.
- His return to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League marks a significant moment, as Lewandowski had previously starred for Dortmund between 2010 and 2014.
- Despite his impressive goal-scoring, Lewandowski’s age has led to concerns about his pressing ability, affecting Barcelona’s defensive intensity.
- Barcelona’s recent struggles, including a loss to Las Palmas and a draw with Real Betis, have raised questions about their away form.
- Flick has praised Lewandowski’s professionalism and fitness, acknowledging his critical role while also managing his workload.
Robert Lewandowski’s revival has played a central role in Barcelona’s strong start to life under new manager Hansi Flick. The 36-year-old striker has scored an impressive 23 goals in 21 games this season, leading Barcelona to the top of La Liga and up to third place in the Champions League standings. As Barcelona faces Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday, Lewandowski’s return to the club where he rose to prominence between 2010 and 2014, including a run to the 2013 Champions League final, adds an emotional layer to the match.
Lewandowski’s current form has been stellar, as he leads both La Liga and the Champions League in goals, with seven goals from five Champions League matches. However, his age has raised concerns about his ability to maintain Barcelona’s high pressing game, a core aspect of Flick’s strategy. The striker’s reduced pressing intensity has recently exposed the team’s high defensive line, contributing to recent slip-ups, including a 2-1 loss to Las Palmas and a 2-2 draw at Real Betis.
Despite these setbacks, Flick remains confident in Lewandowski’s professionalism and fitness, believing that the striker can continue to deliver. Lewandowski’s absence in a recent 5-1 win over Mallorca demonstrated that Barcelona might not be entirely dependent on him, though his leadership and experience are invaluable. As Barcelona heads into its Champions League clash with Dortmund, the team’s ability to balance Lewandowski’s workload and their pressing game will be crucial to their continued success.