Barcelona's Lewandowski Faces Injury Setback: When Will the Goal Machine Return?
Barcelona revealed on Friday that Robert Lewandowski sustained a left hamstring injury during training sessions prior to the Catalans' concluding preseason match against Como.
Lewandowski participated in all three of Barcelona's Asian preseason tour matches against Vissel Kobe, FC Seoul and Daegu FC. The Polish striker netted twice in two starting appearances as attention turned to the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy fixture to conclude their preparation phase. However, the hamstring setback is expected to disrupt Lewandowski's campaign opener as Hansi Flick aims to retain Barcelona's trio of domestic titles. Dani Olmo also practiced separately from the squad due to a minor physical concern.
Barcelona verified that Lewandowski will be absent from the Joan Gamper Trophy encounter, though his comeback schedule remains unclear.
Robert Lewandowski Return Date From Hamstring Injury
Barcelona only disclosed that Lewandowski's rehabilitation period will dictate his comeback timeline regarding the injury's extent. While being deliberately ambiguous, Barcelona possess alternative options from their substitutes' bench to cover the striker's absence.
Barcelona Replacements for Robert Lewandowski in Joan Gamper Trophy
Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres emerge as the most probable candidates to lead the attack. Considering the necessity to adjust before Sunday, Flick might deploy Ferran in the striker role given the Spanish player featured in 45 matches across all tournaments last season. Among those appearances, he operated as a central striker on 21 occasions. While he may not be a traditional number nine like Lewandowski, the Spaniard possesses the expertise and goal-scoring credentials under Flick to earn the starting position. He found the net 19 times and provided seven assists last campaign. The majority of his strikes came while spearheading the attack.
Nevertheless, Flick might provide Rashford substantial playing time in their final preparation match considering the English forward's background with Manchester United. Although many consider Rashford most effective as a left-wing inside forward, he could flourish from Barcelona's dominant ball possession in matches while capitalizing on central or wide service, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal generating space and opportunities.
When is the Joan Gamper Trophy Game?
Barcelona face Como on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 3 p.m. ET.