One of the keys to the good performance Barça has shown this season with Flick is the excellent harmony that reigns in the locker room. The German has managed to build a united group, where the coexistence between young and veteran players flows naturally. Figures like Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, or Fermín López feel supported by the more experienced ones, like Iñigo Martínez, Ter Stegen, or Lewandowski.
The atmosphere in the locker room is positive, and this has been reflected on the field with a more supportive, intense Barça with a clear idea of play. Flick has succeeded in establishing a culture of work and respect that has raised the team's competitive level in all competitions.
Lewandowski is the only thorn
However, not everything is perfect, as in recent weeks, some tension has arisen with Robert Lewandowski's performance. The Pole has reached the end of the season very tight physically and hasn't been able to perform at the level expected of him. His low impact in the Champions League tie against Inter Milan, where Barça was eliminated, has caused discontent.
The fact that Lewandowski wasn't 100% physically in the decisive stretch, coupled with his undisputed starting position, has opened a debate. Some players are beginning to wonder if merit and performance are truly being rewarded, or if the status of certain footballers weighs too heavily.
The locker room doesn't understand it
In this regard, several internal voices don't understand how Lewandowski remains so untouchable. Flick has publicly protected him on several occasions, defending his importance on and off the field, and continues to bet on him as a starter. That trust from the coach in the Pole is seen by some as favoritism that could be detrimental if prolonged.
Sporting management seeks a '9'
The respect for Lewandowski's career is indisputable, but Barça also needs to look to the future. Therefore, from the sporting management the possibility of incorporating a new center forward is being seriously reconsidered. Flick would also agree to have a high-level alternative in attack to provide more resources to the team in the next season.
The most desired options by the sports area would be Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres. However, their market price places them out of Barça's current reach due to economic restrictions and Fair Play.