The problem that Hansi Flick could have in fitting Lewandowski into his idea of ​​​​the game

If there is a player that FC Barcelona hopes can reach his best level, or at least a version quite close to it, that is Robert Lewandowski. The Warsaw native has been the main goal scorer for the Catalan team for two consecutive seasons (2022/23 and 2023/24), and it is expected that in this third period (2024/25) he can also play that role, especially under the direction of Hansi Flick, who knew how to bring out his best performance during his time at Bayern Munich.

However, in these early preseason games, a peculiarity has been noticed in the Polish player's game, possibly associated with physical issues. It is important to remember that we are only talking about the first matches of the season, which are ideal for regaining competitive rhythm after at least three weeks of rest away from football activity. Despite this, it is relevant to consider how the style of play that the German coach wants to implement at Barça could impact 'Lewy'.

The issue Flick could have in fitting 'Lewy' into his starting XI

It is crucial to consider that in schemes like the one that is presumed the Baden-Wurttemberg native plans to implement, with a 4-2-3-1 formation, when pressure is applied after losing possession, most of the time the center forward, in this case the '9' at Barça, would be the first to go after the ball. Although the 'killer' is currently in good physical shape, it is true that he is more accustomed to a style of play in which, as a forward, he combines physical prowess with tactical intelligence, dosing his physical effort as required by the match.

However, this style of forward who paces himself and does not constantly participate in pressing tasks may not be to Flick's total liking, as he wants his players to go like 'motorcycles' for the full 90 minutes. Consequently, there is some uncertainty about whether Lewandowski will be able to maintain this pace, especially as he is about to turn 36 on August 21. Therefore, considering this aspect, the German coach faces the challenge of finding a way to integrate 'Lewy' into his system without overexerting him physically.

This is the particular dilemma of Hansi Flick, who knows that it is crucial for Robert to participate in pressing tasks after losing possession, but also realizes that this could exhaust him and diminish his energy for offensive forays, where it is essential for him to be fresh to convert the goal-scoring opportunities that come his way from behind. Thus, it is necessary for him to participate more actively in the game and take that step forward that is expected of a striker of his caliber, especially in a Barcelona team full of young talents.