Inside the decisions of the Barcelona captain: the complicated relationship of the veteran in the dressing room, 21 years seen as a leader
Barcelona raised the odd eyebrow in August when they selected five players as part of their leadership group to captain the team, led by goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Several others were raised in the absence of Robert Lewandowski from that group.
The Polish veteran has been criticized in the past for his criticism of young players, and The Athletic confirming that his “up and down” relationship with the dressing room was part of the reason he was not included as captain. They also say that former manager Xavi Hernandez felt that he was a poor influence on the youth.
Meanwhile, the presence of Raphinha has also taken some by surprise, as he has not been a guaranteed starter, but they say that his handling of the fact that Lamine Yamal took his preferred position showed his collective mentality. Ter Stegen was an obvious choice as Barcelona's longest-tenured player for five years, as well as helping the young players.
Barcelona have the option to terminate Robert Lewandowski's deal if he does not play 55% of the games this season, but this is a highly unlikely scenario. @sanantheone
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) September 12, 2024
Ronald Araujo has shown his leadership qualities on the pitch, while Frenkie de Jong is often spoken highly of by his teammates, despite his declining public image at Can Barca. Pedri was the second addition to the group alongside Raphinha, and despite being 21 years old, he is seen as a “big brother figure” to some of the youngsters, especially Gavi. The calm is also appreciated by the group.
It is not the first time that Lewandowski's attitude has been called into question since his second season in Catalonia. It is said that the Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan was not impressed with Lewandowskiwhich he knew from his time together at Borussia Dortmund. Xavi's desire to move Lewandowski also played a role in his exit, some theorize.
