To be doing what Robert Lewandowski is at the age of 37 years is almost unfathomable in a sport like football that demands that one stay on the top of their game whenever they take to the field.
The fact that he is still at one of the best clubs in the world and scoring goals for fun at the very highest level of the game is not only a testament to his fitness but also his tenacity and willingness to push himself to greatness.
Truth be told, Lewandowski has had his fair share of trouble with injuries this season and missed the opening part of the season through the same. Since his latest return from injury, however, he has been in red-hot form.
Not slowing down
Lewandowski returned from his most recent setback in Barcelona’s game against Elche, although he only played a short spell off the bench on the night and once again appeared as a substitute against Club Brugge.
His first start post-injury was against Celta Vigo, and he scored a stunning hat-trick on the night to help Barcelona take all three points at a complicated venue.
The international break then arrived, and he travelled to participate in Poland’s two games during the hiatus.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona
Lewandowski has been in top form since returning from injury. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
He provided an assist for the team’s only goal against the Netherlands and then racked up a goal and an assist against Malta.
Once again starting against Athletic Club, he scored Barcelona’s first goal back at the new Spotify Camp Nou last night and now has contributed to a goal in every start since coming back from injury. His last four games alone have yielded five goals and two assists.
Lewandowski’s story proves that age can just be a number, and he is showing no signs of slowing down despite being in the twilight of his career.
Next season, his role in the team will certainly not be the same as it has been in recent years if he renews his contract, but his presence as a leader and a guide is invaluable, even if he can just serve as a super-sub for the manager.
If Barcelona have decided that this is his final season at the club, there is a good enough reason to rethink that stance.