Robert Lewandowski remains an important player for FC Barcelona, but his dominance in the forward line is beginning to be threatened. At 36 years old, the Polish forward has shown that he can make a difference, as he did with his key goal in the comeback against Atlético de Madrid at the Metropolitano. However, age takes its toll, and his performance has been losing consistency over the months.
Despite his desire to continue at least one more season at the elite level, Barça faces an unavoidable reality: it needs a succession plan for his position. Within the same team, an unexpected competitor has emerged, gaining more prominence and decisive minutes in the attack. We're talking about Ferran Torres, the "Shark" of the blaugrana team, who has shown that he can be the alternative as a center forward.
At 24 years old, Ferran is experiencing a moment of football maturity, and his evolution is evident; against Atlético, he was the one who leveled the score. He did so by confirming his ability to be decisive in key moments. His versatility allows him to play both on the wing and in the center of the attack, but he increasingly feels more comfortable as an offensive reference, a role he could definitively assume.
Flick Bets on Ferran
Hansi Flick has been able to take advantage of his form and has given him more minutes, rewarding his commitment and effectiveness. Torres has replied with goals and good performances, something that has led him to seriously think he can be Lewandowski's natural replacement. His mobility, high pressing, and ability to attack spaces make him an attractive option for Barça's scheme, which seeks to modernize its attack and recover its identity.
Meanwhile, Lewandowski remains the starting forward, but his physical wear is evident. Although his goal-scoring instinct hasn't disappeared, his participation in the game has reduced, and his influence is lesser. The fans and the coaching staff are beginning to wonder if it's time to make a change and bet on a younger option with more potential in the team.
Lewandowski Doesn't Want to Be a Substitute
The debate is open, and the season can still dictate the outcome. If Ferran continues to seize his opportunities and Lewandowski fails to recover his best form, Barcelona could make a radical decision in the next market. Everything points to the Polish player continuing for at least one more year, but internal competition has arrived, and Ferran Torres wants to make the most of it.
Are we witnessing the beginning of a changing of the guard in the blaugrana forward line? Ferran Torres feels ready to be the natural replacement for the Polish player. Although many don't see him in that role, they are eager to give him more minutes and for Lewy not to be so overwhelmed.