Perhaps no player has been debated more fiercely at Barcelona than Robert Lewandowski over the last year, with the Polish forward going through some considerable peaks and troughs of form. At the age of 36, many are wondering whether he can still cut it at the top level.
According to Sport, Barcelona will discuss his future in February after the January transfer window closes. If he plays at least 45 minutes in half of their games this season, he will see his contract extended for a fourth year. The Blaugrana expect him to hit that figure in February, and will discuss his future before him.
Marcus Rashford's favourite destination in Spain is Barcelona. He thinks his skillset fits well with the club's style of play. Barça are informed about his situation, but have so far not taken a step forward to sign him. @sport pic.twitter.com/WGwG62fI95
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) December 26, 2024
They go on to say that there is a part of the Barcelona board that believe that it is time to move on from him next summer. However Sporting Director Deco and manager Hansi Flick believe that his performances have been at the top level, and are relying on him next summer. However, if his recent dip continues, the debate would be opened, and crucially, they believe that he would be willing to step aside if the club are honest and direct with him. His intention as things stand is to stay though.
Lewandowski is the runaway Pichichi leader at this point, with 16 goals in his 17, 5 ahead of his closest challenges. Recent weeks have seen that form tail off, and Flick himself appears to be concerned about his fitness too. Lewandowski has been taken off in every game in December, save for their first against RCD Mallorca, in which he did not feature at all for the first time all season.