Barcelona forward slowly becoming the architect of his own decline | Barca Universal

"Not because the Polish striker has suddenly declined beyond usefulness, but because Ferran Torres has emerged with a level of sharpness and energy that Hansi Flick increasingly finds difficult to overlook. At 18 months into his Barça project, Flick has made it clear that intensity and mobility are essential in his front line and given Lewandowski's age, the contrast with Ferran's dynamism becomes more apparent by the week."

"Barcelona's 5-3 demolition of Real Betis last weekend illustrated this shift perfectly. Ferran scored a superb hat-trick and looked every bit the forward around whom Flick could build his attack. Yet even after such a display, the manager handed Lewandowski the starting role against Eintracht Frankfurt, perhaps hoping that experience and opportunity would help the veteran regain momentum. Unfortunately, the opposite unfolded."

Robert Lewandowski's status as Barcelona's clear attacking focal point is weakening as Ferran Torres displays greater sharpness and energy. Hansi Flick prioritizes intensity and mobility in the front line, which accentuates the contrast with Lewandowski's age. Ferran's hat-trick in Barcelona's 5-3 win over Real Betis showcased his suitability to Flick's approach. Flick still started Lewandowski against Eintracht Frankfurt, seeking to restore his momentum, but Lewandowski failed to score for a fourth consecutive game. He appeared isolated, struggled with pressing demands, and had a goal ruled out for offside before being substituted for Ferran early in the second half.

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