FC Barcelona is facing a serious squad crisis ahead of a crucial La Liga matchday 26 fixture against Villarreal. The official confirmation of Frenkie de Jong's six-week absence coincides with growing criticism of Robert Lewandowski's form. In the background of the sporting struggles, sensational reports are emerging about the lack of willingness to extend the contract with the Polish striker, confirmed by people close to president Joan Laporta.

De Jong's long break

Frenkie de Jong is out of action for at least 6 weeks due to a biceps femoris muscle injury, ruling him out of crucial Champions League matches.

Uncertain future for the Pole

An associate of Joan Laporta suggests the club does not plan to extend Robert Lewandowski's contract, paving the way for a summer transfer.

Problems with efficiency

Statistics indicate Lewandowski is wasting a record number of goal-scoring opportunities, becoming a main point of criticism in the Spanish media.

Hansi Flick's discipline

The German coach has introduced strict rules regarding lateness, aiming for maximum team professionalism during a difficult personnel period.

The situation in the Catalan capital has become tense just before the decisive phase of the season. The most distressing news for the coaching staff is the loss of Frenkie de Jong. The Dutch midfielder, after an injury sustained during Thursday's training, must be sidelined for five to six weeks due to a biceps femoris muscle injury. This is a massive blow for Hansi Flick, who was considering the player for a key role in upcoming league matches and the Champions League round of 16. The only glimmer of hope remains the imminent return of Gavi, although the medical staff recommends extreme caution following his lengthy rehabilitation. The Camp Nou stadium, home to FC Barcelona since 1957, is currently undergoing a thorough modernization. The club, despite sporting successes, has been struggling for years with La Liga's restrictive financial regulations, which directly impact transfer capabilities and contract policy towards older players. Simultaneously, the Spanish media is buzzing with the Robert Lewandowski case. Although the Pole remains a key figure in the attack, the statistics are becoming ruthless for him. According to analyses by the newspaper "La Vanguardia" and the statistical service "barca1899stats", the captain of the Polish national team has wasted the most 'big chances' to score in the entire league under the current tactical system. This criticism takes on particular significance in the context of statements by Ferran Olive, a close associate of the Catalan club's president. His words indicate that Barcelona does not currently plan to extend the contract with the 37-year-old striker, and the club is actively looking for a new leader of the offensive formation. This has triggered a wave of speculation about potential moves for Lewandowski to Saudi Arabia or the American MLS league. „No, en principio no. Yo diría que no.” (No, in principle, no. I would say no.) — Ferran Olive The atmosphere in the locker room, despite the sporting challenges, seems stable. The players boisterously celebrated Hansi Flick's recent birthday, subjecting him to the traditional 'guard of honor', which was recorded by the club's cameras. Nevertheless, the German coach has tightened discipline, introducing new strict rules regarding punctuality, which is meant to help the team maintain focus in the face of missing key midfielders. Sunday's match against Villarreal will be a true test of the 'Blaugrana' squad's depth and an answer to the question of whether the team can win without its pillars.

Mentioned People

  • Robert Lewandowski — FC Barcelona striker, criticized for a drop in efficiency and an uncertain future at the club.
  • Hansi Flick — FC Barcelona coach, grappling with a plague of midfield injuries.
  • Frenkie de Jong — Barcelona midfielder who suffered a serious muscle injury in training.
  • Ferran Olive — Member of Barcelona's financial structures who commented on Lewandowski's contract.