Barcelona have flown for most of the season, but the revenge of their victories over Real Madrid and Bayern Munich was a harsh return to reality. Two of their most lauded stars are now back under the cosh after three league games without a win.
Despite 22 goals in 20 games for Robert Lewandowski, the Polish striker is facing his critics from last season again. Manager Hansi Flick referred to “disconnections” during his post-match press conference following the Las Palmas defeat, and on Friday he also emphasized the fact that the forwards will have to press as hard as the defenders to perform things work. Lewandowski is one of those accused of not having done so, after a lost game even on the ball.
Hansi Flick can breathe easy: Dani Olmo will be ready to be a starter against Real Mallorca. @RogerTorello
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) December 2, 2024
Meanwhile, Jules Kounde was being talked about as one of the best right-backs in the world a month ago, especially after his trio of assists against Crvena Zvezda. However, he was subbed off after 56 minutes against Las Palmas for Hector Fort, and was responsible for one of the goals conceded against Celta Vigo due to a mental error. Both Marco and Relief say that the pair are under pressure, while Frenkie de Jong is also having a hard time. The Dutch midfielder has been disappointing in his return from injury with the notable exception of his 45 minutes during the Clasico. On Saturday, Pablo Torre and Gavi had the lead in front of him with Marc Casado suspended and Dani Olmo rested.
Part of Barcelona's problems this season have been due to a lack of strength in depth. The Blaugrana only have Eric Garcia as a senior a rotation option for their central defenders, while Hector Fort and Gerard Martin are inexperienced alternatives on the flanks. In front, Ferran Torres is the closest to a nine, also injured for a couple of months, and a substitute was not found in the absence of Lamine Yamal.
