Barcelona's forward Robert Lewandowski faces crucial days ahead, especially with the upcoming comeback against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey, which heavily depends on their form.
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are expected to be protagonists in the match, but the third spot in the attack will be taken by either Robert Lewandowski or Ferran Torres.
The striker rotation has been ongoing throughout the season, with coach Hansi Flick giving both players chances and regularly alternating between them. Both have delivered results, but Lewandowski was benched in the first leg earlier this month.
In a recent interview, Lewandowski reflected on last season and how injuries spoiled the end of his campaign. He described it as an intense and sometimes turbulent year, with injuries occurring just when he felt he could contribute more to the team. He admitted watching from the bench was very difficult and that he felt helpless seeing the team close to the final without being able to help.
When asked about competition with Ferran Torres for minutes this season, he explained there are not many training sessions between matches to decide everything and that the coach has his own vision and plan that depend on recent playing time and upcoming opponents. He also stated that rotation in today’s game with so many matches is natural and beneficial, providing freshness and energy both physically and mentally.
Lewandowski mentioned that playing 90 minutes every three days requires focusing on recovery, and the current balance allows him to feel tired but not exhausted.
Regarding his fitness, he noted that many people view his game through the prism of age, which can be deceptive, as he feels he remains at a very high level without a decline in motor skills or being left behind by younger players.
About Barcelona’s season, he said the team does not depend on any single individual and has found better balance, with everyone on the field sharing the load. He confirmed recent tactical changes, with the team playing less high, becoming more defensively flexible, and avoiding risks compared to the first season under Flick.
He praised Pedri as an extraordinary player with huge potential technically and in his game vision, and described Lamine Yamal as a very special young player who experiences normal small fluctuations but still adds positive energy and makes a difference.
On his future, Lewandowski stated it is definitely not the time to make decisions yet. His focus remains on winning another Champions League title, acknowledging that winning it is far off and speculating about the future makes little sense. He said ending his club career with a second Champions League victory at a second club would be fantastic.
Finally, when asked if he was happy with his signing at Barcelona overall, he said that if someone had told him he would score as many goals and win as many trophies as he did, he would have accepted that blindly.
