Robert Lewandowski found the net again in Poland's friendly against Finland. It was a special goal, not only because of the score, but because it meant regaining confidence. Barça's striker needed this boost after a season start marked by his preseason injury.
During the first three matchdays of LaLiga, the Pole watched the games from the bench. This is unusual for him. At 37, he understands he can't play every minute anymore, but he also knows his natural place is in the starting eleven.
Ferran Torres and the direct competition
In his absence, Ferran Torres has stepped up. Two goals in the opening matches and a performance that convinced Hans-Dieter Flick. The German coach chose him as an improvised "9" and the former Manchester City player delivered.
That good run didn't go unnoticed, Flick saw no reason to move him from the starting line-up. Meanwhile, Lewandowski worked quietly, regaining fitness and preparing for his return.
But everything changed this week, Ferran found out that Lewandowski had met with Flick. The message was direct: "I'm ready, I want to return to the starting eleven."
A straightforward conversation
The meeting between Lewandowski and Flick wasn't accidental. The Pole asked to speak with his coach to make his situation clear. He believes he has overcome the injury and that there's no reason to keep sitting on the bench.
According to several sources, the striker was clear: he wants to start against Valencia and arrive in form for the Champions League debut against Newcastle. He knows this will be his last season at Camp Nou, since his contract ends in June and there won't be a renewal. That's why he wants to enjoy every minute and say goodbye with titles and more goals for his personal tally.
Flick listened, but didn't confirm any changes. The decision will depend on performance in training and the team's needs.
The 41-goal challenge and the immediate future
Lewandowski doesn't just want to return to the starting line-up, he also has an ambitious goal: to surpass the 41 goals he scored last season. He believes that if he gets continuity, he can achieve it. He doesn't ask to play every match, but he does want to be present in the important games.
Meanwhile, Ferran Torres doesn't plan to give up his spot. He feels he's at his best at Barça and believes one more goal could give him the edge. The competition will be intense.
The schedule is relentless, Valencia in LaLiga, Newcastle in the Champions League, and several decisive matches in just a few weeks. Flick will have to balance experience and form. Lewandowski wants to prove he's still lethal, Ferran wants to confirm he can be decisive.
The battle for Barça's "9" has begun, and what happens in the coming matches will shape the rest of the season.