As the 2024 year comes to a close, Barcelona’s performance has been under scrutiny, with Robert Lewandowski’s goal drought being a major concern. Despite leading the La Liga scoring charts with 16 goals, the Polish striker has only scored twice since October 26th. This slump has coincided with the team’s poor form, leaving them in third place behind Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
A recent survey conducted by Estudi Press and published in „Mundo Deportivo” reveals that fans are unhappy with the team’s performance, particularly in the striker position. Almost 25% of respondents believe that the center-forward position needs to be refreshed, while over 27% think the left-back position requires an upgrade.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom for Lewandowski. The fans still have faith in the Polish striker, who has an impressive record of 82 goals and 19 assists in 119 games for Barcelona. But the survey results suggest that the fans are looking for new blood, particularly in the striker position.
Erling Haaland: The Transfer Dream
The survey also asked fans which player they would like to see join Barcelona in the summer transfer window. And the results are telling – 14% of fans voted for Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker who has been making waves in the football world with his impressive goal-scoring record.
Other popular choices include Nico Williams (12.66%) and Viktor Gyokeres (6.33%). While it’s unlikely that any of these players will replace Lewandowski immediately, it’s clear that the fans are looking for a change in the striker position.
Faith in Youth
One of the most interesting aspects of the survey is the faith that fans have in Barcelona’s youth players. Over 70% of respondents believe that the team’s young players should be given more opportunities, with Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi being particularly mentioned.
This faith in youth is reflective of Barcelona’s long-standing tradition of developing young players through their famous La Masia academy. And with the likes of Ansu Fati and Pedri already making an impact on the first team, it’s clear that the fans are excited about the future of the club.
Goalkeeper Conundrum
The survey also touched on the goalkeeper position, with almost 70% of fans believing that Marc-Andre ter Stegen should not be replaced, despite his recent injury woes. The fans have faith in the German goalkeeper, who has been instrumental in Barcelona’s success in recent years.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
As the year comes to a close, Barcelona’s performance has been under scrutiny. While Lewandowski’s goal drought has been a major concern, the survey results suggest that the fans are looking for change, particularly in the striker position. With the summer transfer window just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how the club responds to the fans’ demands.
One thing is certain, though – Barcelona needs to get back to winning ways if they want to challenge for the La Liga title. And with the likes of Haaland and other top strikers being linked to the club, it’s clear that the fans are expecting big things in the new year.
Statistics:
* 25% of fans believe the center-forward position needs to be refreshed
* 27% of fans think the left-back position requires an upgrade
* 14% of fans voted for Erling Haaland as their dream transfer signing
* 70% of fans believe that Marc-Andre ter Stegen should not be replaced
* Lewandowski has scored 82 goals and 19 assists in 119 games for Barcelona