Barcelona’s forward trio have a long few days ahead, especially in the Copa del Rey against Atletico Madrid, and much will depend on their form.
Lamine Hjalmar and Rafinha will be the stars of the night, but the attacking third spot will be occupied by either Robert Lewandowski or Ferran Torres.
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The forward issue has persisted all season, with Hansi Flick giving opportunities to both players and regularly rotating between the two. Both have produced results, but Lewandowski was the one who came on as a substitute in the first leg earlier this month.
Lewandowski interviewed
The Barcelona forward spoke to the media in a recent interview and reflected on last season and how injuries ruined his season.
“[It was] It’s been an intense and sometimes tumultuous year. “
“It was at a time when I felt I could contribute more to the team that I got injured.”
He then revealed how helpless he felt at the time at not being able to help the team.
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“Being on the bench and seeing everything was probably the hardest thing; it hurt me even more. I felt the team was very close to the final but I couldn’t help as much as I wanted.”
On the rivalry with Ferran Torres
The Polish striker was then asked about his competition for minutes with Ferran Torres this season, with Hansi Flick giving both of them equal importance.
“Realistically, there’s not that much training between games, everything is decided there. I wouldn’t say it’s a direct competition in training.”
“Coach Hansi Flick has his own vision and philosophy and he sticks to a specific plan. [It’s based on] Who has played recently, how many games they have played, and who we will be facing as a result. “
The veteran star then spoke about how rotation is needed in today’s game.
Competing for the starting position. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
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“With so many games, rotation at the forward position is natural and I think Phelan and I can benefit from the current situation.”
“On the one hand, all players want to play as much as possible because the pace of the game is crucial. On the other hand, the current situation gives me more freshness and energy, both physically and mentally.”
Lewandowski elaborated on how the distribution of playing time has actually helped him,
“When you’re playing 90 minutes every three days, your whole life revolves around recovery.”
“The balance is a little better now. I’m tired, but I’m not exhausted. That’s the fundamental difference,” he added.
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about his fitness
The striker was then asked about his physical fitness on the field, especially given his age.
“A lot of people view my game primarily through the prism of age, but that’s often a deceptive lens.”
“[I feel] at a very high level. [I don’t feel] My motor skills are declining,” he added.
He then talked about how he thinks he can still compete with the younger guys in terms of contribution.
“I don’t feel like I’m behind the younger players, physically or football-wise.”
“I know if I have to go back to playing 90 minutes every three days, I’ll be ready.” he added.
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Barcelona this season
One aspect of Barcelona’s game that stands out is that the team doesn’t rely on any one person to get them through tough times at any point.
“People remain our most important asset; they are the ones who ultimately make a difference.” Lewandowski admitted as much.
“[The team has found] Better balance. Everyone on the field can handle the load,” he added.
Lewandowski’s contract expires in June. (Photo by Gabrielle Kuchta/Getty Images)
He then confirmed a change in Barcelona’s approach in recent games.
“We don’t play as high on the court anymore. Our defense becomes more flexible and we don’t always take risks like we did in the first season.”
The veteran star also heaped praise on Pedri and Lamine Yamar, saying both are very special players.
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“He is an extraordinary player. He has huge potential, technically he is very good and the way he passes the ball and sees the game is impressive.” he said of Pedri.
“For a player so young, small fluctuations are completely natural. [Even when he is not at his best]he brought a lot of positive energy to the team and brought about changes,” he said, referring to the controversy surrounding the minor inconsistencies in the Yamal Peninsula.
On what’s next for him
Finally, Lewandowski was asked about his future and whether he had made any decisions about playing beyond the end of the season.
“Of course, now is not the time to make a decision.”
“I don’t know what will happen in the Champions League. Winning the title is so far away that there’s no point in wondering what would happen if.” He added that his goal is to win another UCL title.
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“It would be the pinnacle of my club career to get a second win in the Champions League with a second team, which would be fantastic.” he added.
Finally, he was asked if he was satisfied with his overall performance at Barcelona and he said:
“If someone told me I would score goals and win as many trophies as I do, I would take it blindly.”
Source: Sports