The season has just begun and there's already debate at Barcelona about Robert Lewandowski's role. The Polish striker, who has already turned 37, is going through a key moment in his career. He wants to show that he's still decisive, although the start of the season has been quiet in terms of prominence.
In the first three LaLiga matches, Lewandowski has only played 26 minutes spread over two games, a secondary role marked by his physical discomfort.
Full recovery and goal with Poland
Lewandowski is now fully recovered from the physical discomfort that had limited him. In fact, with his national team, he has made it clear that he's back in shape. He started and scored against Finland, sending a direct message to Barça that he's ready to take on more minutes.
For the Pole, what happened this week is enough proof to claim his place in Barça's starting eleven.
Direct request to Flick
"El Nacional" has revealed that Robert Lewandowski has told Hansi Flick he wants to play the full 90 minutes in the next match. Specifically, it's the Barça-Valencia game, corresponding to matchday 4 of LaLiga, which will be played on September 14 at Estadi Johan Cruyff.
The striker doesn't want to remain in the shadows. He feels it's time to regain his status as offensive leader and demands trust to make a difference again.
The dilemma with Ferran Torres
However, the decision isn't so simple for Hansi Flick. The German knows that giving Lewandowski 90 minutes would mean leaving Ferran Torres on the bench, one of the most in-form players at the start of the season.
The Valencian striker has scored 2 goals in 3 matches, showing he can be an offensive reference. Sending him to the bench right now would be a hard blow to his confidence and, above all, to the famous meritocracy that Hansi Flick has established in the locker room.
Lewandowski or Ferran Torres?
The debate is open at Barcelona. Should Flick bet on Lewandowski's experience and goal-scoring instinct or keep trust in Ferran Torres, who's started at full speed? Hansi Flick will have to find the balance, perhaps alternating positions or betting on the Spaniard on one of the wings.
The clash against Valencia isn't just another match. Barça want to get back on track after going into the break with a draw. Robert Lewandowski's presence could be key, but Flick doesn't want to risk Ferran Torres's good form.
According to "El Nacional", the final decision hasn't been made yet, although what's clear is that Lewandowski has asked for his chance. At 37, he's not settling for a secondary role: he wants to be Barça's undisputed "9" again.