Barça faces the new season with several unsolved issues regarding sports planning. After a transfer window that brought both significant additions and unexpected departures, Flick is beginning to shape the core on which to build the new campaign at the helm of the club. In that scenario, Robert Lewandowski's role is once again taking center stage, not only because of his position as a goal scorer, but also due to his leadership abilities within the culé locker room.
At 36 years old, the Polish striker remains a game-changing footballer and keeps the full trust of the coaching staff. Flick has managed to bring out his best version again, something that was reflected in his performance, where he was once more decisive with goals and outstanding displays. That's why the club believes that, beyond his age, he continues to be an essential piece.
Temptation that changed nothing
In this stable context, Lewandowski has also been in the spotlight off the field. The Arab market has once again focused on established figures in European soccer, with the Pole as one of the main targets. According to sources close to the matter, Al-Hilal even offered him a massive contract, with an estimated salary of €100 million (100 millones de euros) net per season.
This would have made him one of the highest-paid athletes on the planet. Despite such an offer, the striker didn't hesitate to reaffirm his commitment to Barça. Neither his age, the possibility of a golden retirement, nor the astronomical sums convinced him to leave Camp Nou.
Lewandowski keeps his motivation intact and prefers to compete at the elite level rather than opt for a radical change of direction.
Laporta and Deco breathe easy
Lewandowski's decision is a relief for the board, who had experienced Íñigo Martínez's departure to Saudi soccer in this same transfer window. Joan Laporta and Deco know that keeping the Pole in the squad is crucial both on a sporting and institutional level.His presence guarantees leadership and keeps the locker room united at a time of transition toward a project that aims to compete for every title.
Meanwhile, Flick welcomes the continuity of a striker he considers indispensable for his play style. The German coach knows him well from their time in the Bundesliga and is convinced that he can continue to make a difference. With a current contract, Lewandowski has made it clear that his present and immediate future remain tied to Barça, thus reinforcing stability in one of the most decisive positions on the field.