Barcelona's Lewandowski sidelined for Como match due to hamstring affliction
Barcelona Brace for Lewandowski's Absence as Hamstring Injury Looms
Barcelona is facing a challenging start to their 2023-24 season, with star striker Robert Lewandowski sidelined due to a hamstring injury. The Polish forward, who was the club's top scorer in the 2024-25 season with 42 goals across all competitions, is currently in recovery and his return to the team remains uncertain.
In the absence of Lewandowski, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick will be relying on a few key players to lead the attack. Among them, Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford are the main contenders to fill Lewandowski's shoes.
Ferran Torres, who has experience playing as a center forward, is considered a leading candidate. Last season, he made 45 appearances and scored 19 goals with seven assists, many while leading the line. Torres is expected to start in Lewandowski's absence, particularly in the immediate matches, including the season opener against Mallorca.
Marcus Rashford could also be used, particularly off the bench. The English forward brings Premier League and international experience, and could thrive positioned centrally or out wide supporting playmakers like Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, could potentially replace Lewandowski.
Dani Olmo is another squad member, but there are minor doubts over his fitness. However, it's less clear whether he will be a front-line striker replacement.
Ferran Torres himself is a doubt for Barcelona's upcoming match, adding to the team's concerns. The upcoming pre-season match for Barcelona is against Cesc Fabregas' side, marking their final pre-season outing before the LaLiga fixture against Mallorca on August 16.
Lewandowski's injury is in the same area that forced him to miss Barcelona's Copa del Rey match against Real Madrid in April. Dani Olmo, meanwhile, trained separately from the Barcelona team due to a "small physical issue."
Barcelona announced that Lewandowski is unavailable for the Joan Gamper Trophy match due to a hamstring problem in his left thigh. The recovery of Lewandowski's hamstring injury will determine his return to the Barcelona team.
As the season unfolds, it remains to be seen how Hansi Flick will adjust the attack to compensate for Lewandowski's absence. The team will undoubtedly be looking forward to the day when their star striker returns to the field.
In the upcoming match against Cesc Fabregas' side and the season opener against Mallorca, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick may rely on Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford as potential replacements for Robert Lewandowski, who's recovering from a hamstring injury. Ferran Torres, who scored 19 goals last season, is expected to start in Lewandowski's absence, while Rashford could be used, particularly off the bench, due to his Premier League and international experience.
