Barcelona boasted of one of football’s most lethal attacking trios last season. While Raphinha and Lamine Yamal stole the headlines more often than not, it was Robert Lewandowski who had the bulk of the goals and a contribution that cannot be discounted.
The Polish striker, now 36 years of age, is now preparing for the new season once more and it is clear that his output will be critical to the team’s success. Given his age, however, how the manager uses him will be a massive factor.
The preseason tour showed that Lewandowski still has plenty of goals in him, and his adaptation to the dynamics has been spotless. Needless to say, the Pichichi award will be a goal in his mind once more this season.
Lewandowski’s thoughts
Speaking to the media in a recent interview, the Barcelona striker discussed a plethora of topics, including his career so far, the highs and the lows and the Ballon d’Or.
He first began answering a question on whether he regretted not playing in the Premier League in his long and illustrious career.
“It might be a rare thing that I regret [not playing in the Premier League]. When I look back after playing for Bayern Munich, Dortmund, and now Barcelona, I have to say I’m very happy with my career.”
He added that not playing in England did not take anything away from his career and that he had not missed out on anything.
“I don’t feel like I missed out on anything, because every step or decision I made was by my choice.”
He was then asked about his form and fitness ahead of the new season, especially given that he is a year older in one of the most demanding leagues and clubs in the world.
“When I see that I still don’t need to chase the young players, but rather they’re the ones who need to chase me, it means the upcoming season could be very good too.”
“I’m still here to give my best performance,” he added.
On Barcelona’s youngsters
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA - JANUARY 12: Pedri, Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona line up prior to the Spanish Super Cup Final between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona at King Abdullah Sports City on January 12, 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Lewandowski in awe of the Barcelona youngsters. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Lewandowski then spoke on how he has grown to learn and coexist with players half his age and how they thrive well together.
“I’ve realised that I can’t compete with them, but I can help them, and they can help me too. I learn a lot from them.”
Lewandowski was then asked to recall the first training session when he saw Lamine Yamal and the impression that was left on him then.
“It was the first time in my life that I’ve seen, in just 50 minutes, that he has something special.”
“I couldn’t believe it because I’ve never seen a player like this at this age – I thought it was impossible at 15,” he added.
Finally, the striker spoke about the Ballon d’Or, an award he has been nominated for once more alongside Barcelona’s stars Raphinha, Pedri and Lamine Yamal.
“There are now many players who can win the Ballon d’Or,” he began.
“Lamine Yamal’s season was amazing. He has plenty of time, if not this year, then perhaps next year,” he said on Yamal’s chances.
“Raphinha also had a great season. We have players who could be among the top contenders for such an award,” he concluded, admitting that the race was open.
Source: BBC