Barcelona’s aspirations for a historic domestic and European treble have taken a massive hit. The Catalan giants will have to navigate the defining weeks of their season without their talismanic frontman, Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish icon, who has been in blistering form, will miss crucial fixtures including the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final against arch-rivals Real Madrid. This latest injury development confirms Barcelona’s worst fears and puts immense pressure on manager Hansi Flick as he enters a critical phase of his debut campaign in Spain.
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Muscle Misery Hits Camp Nou
Lewandowski limped off the field during Barcelona’s comeback victory against Celta Vigo on Saturday, sparking immediate concern. The striker, who has bagged a sensational 40 goals in 48 appearances across all competitions this season, appeared to suffer a hamstring strain. Dressing room whispers of a serious injury were soon validated by the medical team’s diagnosis. The club officially stated that the forward has “suffered an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left thigh.”
With an estimated recovery period of around three weeks, the 36-year-old veteran is now certain to miss several key matches, including the Copa del Rey final versus Real Madrid and the first leg of Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan. This setback couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Blaugrana.
Champions League Setback and Domestic Struggles
The timing of Lewandowski’s absence threatens to derail Barcelona’s continental campaign. Facing a tactically astute Inter Milan side in the semi-finals without their top scorer significantly reduces the attacking threat that has defined Flick’s team throughout the season.
In La Liga, the upcoming clashes with Mallorca and Valladolid were considered opportunities to consolidate domestic dominance. However, with the spearhead of their attack sidelined, Barcelona must now rely on alternative options up front.
The second leg against Inter and a pivotal league encounter with Real Madrid remain uncertain in Lewandowski’s calendar. His potential involvement in these fixtures will depend entirely on his rehabilitation progress and medical green light, though optimism remains cautious.
Flick’s Response: Hopeful Yet Guarded
Hansi Flick addressed the media with a mix of realism and optimism ahead of Barcelona’s midweek match against Mallorca. “Hopefully, but we don’t know. We have to wait, when is ready, we will be happy to have him back, but we have to wait,” Flick said when questioned about Lewandowski’s potential return timeline.
The German tactician chose not to elaborate much on the injury, instead focusing on his broader squad management during a demanding fixture stretch. “We have to manage it. It’s also important that we have some fresh legs against Mallorca. It’s not easy to manage it. I have a lot of thoughts in my head now. Also the players want to show that they are fit and they are ready, but we have to manage it, and we want to make the right decision.”
Flick’s comments hint at possible rotation, with the squad’s depth likely to be tested as they navigate this critical period.
Next Man Up: Torres, Olmo, and the Tactical Puzzle
Ferran Torres, currently enjoying a rich vein of form with ten La Liga goals to his name, is expected to step into the void left by Lewandowski. Operating as the central striker is not unfamiliar territory for Torres, especially in domestic cup competitions. “He’s very important. That we also manage this. He’s in a very good moment in his career, he’s scored ten goals in La Liga. And I think nine is the right position for him…“
Torres’s versatility, pace, and ability to press from the front make him an ideal candidate to lead the line, particularly in Flick’s high-intensity system.
Dani Olmo, now back to full fitness, presents another intriguing possibility. The Spanish international has previously played as a false nine, most notably during the January fixture against Real Betis. His technical ability and movement could allow Barcelona to operate with a more fluid front three.
Other squad members such as Ansu Fati and Pau Victor remain backup options, though neither has been given significant minutes recently.
Ter Stegen Returns Amid Goalkeeping Uncertainty
While the forward line faces upheaval, Barcelona have received positive news between the posts. Club captain Marc-André ter Stegen is available for selection again. However, Flick’s remarks suggest that the goalkeeping position remains open for discussion. “He is ready. We have to speak about what we want to do, so I will speak with him. We have to decide when it is good to come back.”
Despite ter Stegen’s availability, it’s believed that Wojciech Szczesny could retain his spot as the starting goalkeeper for the remainder of the season, especially given his consistent performances in the German’s setup.
Read More: Barcelona’s Financial Rebound: Unexpected UCL Boost Fuels Hopes of 1:1 Rule Return
FAQs
Why is Robert Lewandowski missing El Clasico and the Copa del Rey final?
Robert Lewandowski suffered a semitendinosus muscle injury in his left thigh during the match against Celta Vigo, ruling him out for approximately three weeks.
Which key matches will Lewandowski miss for Barcelona?
Lewandowski will miss the Copa del Rey final vs Real Madrid, Champions League semi-final first leg against Inter Milan, and La Liga clashes against Mallorca and Valladolid.
Who will replace Robert Lewandowski in Barcelona’s starting lineup?
Ferran Torres is expected to lead the attack, with Dani Olmo and possibly Ansu Fati or Pau Victor as additional options.
What did Hansi Flick say about Lewandowski’s injury recovery?
“Hopefully, but we don’t know. We have to wait, when is ready, we will be happy to have him back, but we have to wait,” said Hansi Flick.
Is Marc-André ter Stegen back from injury?
Yes, ter Stegen has returned to full fitness, but Wojciech Szczesny may continue as the first-choice goalkeeper for now.
