Robert Lewandowski found himself at the center of a media storm following Barcelona's 1-0 win over Levante. Despite 'The Pride of Catalonia' returning to the top of the La Liga table, the Polish striker was harshly criticized by the Spanish press. Cameras captured the frustration of the Poland national team captain, who left the pitch early, not hiding his dissatisfaction with Hansi Flick's substitution decision. Spanish media speculate about a crisis of form for the 37-year-old sniper.

Lewandowski's frustration

The Pole left the pitch in the 65th minute, and the media focused on analyzing his reaction in the context of growing pressure on the striker's effectiveness.

Victory and return to the top

Marc Bernal's goal secured a 1:0 win and the La Liga top spot despite criticism of the playing style.

Dressing room tensions

Coach Flick had to explain the behavior of Lewandowski and Yamal towards the coaching staff.

Haaland speculation

Media fueled rumors about a transfer for the Norwegian, who could replace the Pole in attack.

Despite a narrow 1:0 victory over Levante, the mood in the FC Barcelona camp is mixed. The match result was opened by young talent Marc Bernal, and a certain 3:0 victory allowed Hansi Flick's team to regain the top position in the table. However, all media attention focused on Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker played another poor match, wasting a clear scoring opportunity, which the media dubbed the 'miss of the season'. Spanish newspapers delivered ruthless reviews, giving the Pole a failing grade and suggesting his influence on the team's play has drastically diminished. The situation was exacerbated by the Pole's behavior at the moment of substitution in the second half. Lewandowski left the pitch with clear reluctance, muttering crude comments under his breath, which was immediately picked up by broadcast cameras. He was not the only dissatisfied player; a similar frustration was displayed by Lamine Yamal, who after leaving the pitch late in the match did not hide his irritation with the coach's decision. Hansi Flick was forced to explain his star's behavior during the press conference, trying to calm emotions and emphasizing the importance of the three points that gave the team a 'reset of doubts' after recent weaker performances. FC Barcelona has been grappling with immense media pressure for years, where every match without a goal from the top striker is analyzed as a sign of a structural crisis. Historically, however, this club has managed to emerge from such impasses thanks to a strong identity based on graduates of the La Masia academy. Parallel to on-field events, details of Lewandowski's contract came to light, including clauses regarding bonuses for scoring achievements, which, given his current impotence, raises additional controversy. Behind the scenes, there is increasing talk about the transfer ambitions of president Joan Laporta, who is reportedly probing the possibility of signing Erling Haaland. The Norwegian himself enigmatically stated that such a move is 'possible', which the Spanish press interprets as a signal to gradually replace the Polish veteran with a younger successor.

Mentioned People

  • Robert Lewandowski — Barcelona striker criticized for lack of effectiveness.
  • Hansi Flick — FC Barcelona coach, under whose leadership the team returned to the top.
  • Lamine Yamal — Barcelona's young star, who also showed frustration upon substitution.