FC Barcelona is on a roll, with six consecutive victories in La Liga, and is looking to extend its winning streak on Saturday evening when it hosts Osasuna. The Catalan giants, led by coach Hansi Flick, have reclaimed the top spot in the league, and a win against the 11th-placed team would further solidify their position.
However, the Spanish media is abuzz with speculation about the team’s lineup, particularly regarding the Polish duo of Wojciech Szczęsny and Robert Lewandowski. While Szczęsny is certain to start, Lewandowski’s fate is uncertain.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Szczęsny and Cubarsi are guaranteed starters, while Lewandowski’s participation is still a topic of debate. „Trener Flick on treningach testował drużynę, w której w wyjściowej jedenastce było tylko czterech podstawowych zawodników: Szczęsny, Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal i Lewandowski,” the publication wrote.
On the other hand, AS and Sport are of the opinion that Lewandowski might start on the bench, with Raphinha likely to replace him. „Raphinha and Lewandowski may be rotated in. Both may enter from the bench, but Flick will wait until the morning session to see how the players feel. The Pole and the Brazilian have contributed to 34 out of 71 goals Barcelona has scored in La Liga, which is 48%. Maybe there are too many players in rotation to leave them on the bench,” AS analyzed.
The Spanish media is also highlighting the possibility of Lewandowski being rested, given his age and the need for rotation. „In attack, there is tension. Lewandowski is always ambitious, he will want to play to help the team score and strengthen his 'Pichichi’ bid. Flick, however, may decide to leave him out. At 36, 'Lewy’ understands that he needs to rest from time to time. If the German coach decides to change the striker, Dani Olmo could play again as a false nine,” Sport wrote.
FC Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, has hinted at rotations in his pre-match press conference, which has added to the speculation about Lewandowski’s participation. The German coach is known for his tactical acumen, and his decision will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
As the Catalan giants look to extend their winning streak, the Polish duo of Szczęsny and Lewandowski will be under the spotlight. While Szczęsny’s inclusion is certain, Lewandowski’s fate remains uncertain, adding to the intrigue surrounding the match.
According to the latest statistics, FC Barcelona has scored 71 goals in La Liga this season, with Lewandowski contributing to 34 of them. The Polish striker is also in the running for the 'Pichichi’ award, given to the top scorer in La Liga.
The match between FC Barcelona and Osasuna kicks off at 21:00 on Saturday evening, and fans can follow the live action on Sport.pl and the Sport.pl LIVE mobile application.