Tactical shift at Barcelona will limit club veteran’s involvement next season

According to Mundo Deportivo, Robert Lewandowski’s role at Barcelona is expected to reduce significantly next season.

While the veteran striker remains one of the team’s top scorers, his age and limited contribution to high-intensity pressing are factors pushing the coaching staff toward a tactical reshuffle.

The arrival of Nico Williams, a signing Barcelona is confident of completing for over €60 million, is expected to play a major part in this change.

With Hansi Flick determined to bring balance to both wings, Nico is being viewed as a guaranteed starter on the left, with Lamine Yamal on the right wing..

Nico’s inclusion is just one piece of the puzzle. Raphinha, who has racked up 34 goals and 25 assists just last season, is also expected to retain his place in the starting XI.

However, to accommodate both Raphinha and Nico, changes in positioning are being considered. Raphinha may be moved to an attacking midfield role, allowing more flexibility in attack.

Lewandowski will not have same significance next season. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

This would leave the central striker position open to rotation between Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Lewandowski.

Olmo, in particular, is being considered as a potential false nine, a role that would allow more movement, quicker pressing, and tactical fluidity, key aspects of Flick’s playing style.

Despite scoring consistently last season, Lewandowski is now 36, and his recovery from injuries has become slower.

The technical staff believes that reducing his minutes will help maintain the team’s physical intensity, especially in matches where pressing from the front is crucial.

While a move to Saudi Arabia in 2026 is already being talked about in football circles, for now, the Polish striker is still at the club. However, the writing is on the wall is that his role will no longer be untouchable.

Barcelona are entering a new phase, with youth, pace, and pressing being the cornerstones. And as things stand, Lewandowski will need to adapt or step aside.