Barcelona’s preparations for the much-anticipated El Clasico have taken a massive hit, as star striker Robert Lewandowski has been ruled out due to a fresh muscle injury picked up while on international duty with Poland.
According to reports, the Catalan giants are furious with the 37-year-old for ignoring discomfort and continuing to play, a decision that has now sidelined him for nearly a month.
Barcelona’s medical team confirmed that Lewandowski suffered a torn muscle in his left thigh during Poland’s clash against Lithuania. The veteran striker reportedly felt pain in the first half but decided to play on after receiving treatment and being bandaged at half-time.
Despite the discomfort, Lewa stayed on the pitch for the full 90 minutes and even scored Poland’s second goal — but that decision has now come at a cost. The club expects him to miss at least four weeks, ruling him out of the El Clasico against Real Madrid and several key fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League.
The mood at Barcelona is reportedly tense, with manager Hansi Flick and the medical staff frustrated over Lewandowski’s “lack of caution.” According to Marca, the club believes he should have been substituted immediately instead of risking further damage.
Given Lewa’s experience and leadership status, Barca insiders are disappointed that he chose to continue despite earlier warnings about managing his fitness after a similar issue in pre-season.
This latest setback adds to a long list of injury woes for Barcelona during international breaks. The club has repeatedly clashed with national team coaches over player workload — with stars like Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal all returning injured or fatigued in recent months.
Flick had earlier criticised Spain coach Luis de la Fuente for overplaying Yamal, and now faces another crisis — this time caused by Lewandowski’s decision-making.
Barcelona’s medical department has also questioned the handling of Lewa’s injury by Poland’s staff, especially given that the striker had just recovered from a thigh strain sustained in pre-season.
Losing Lewandowski ahead of El Clasico is a major blow for Flick’s side, who are already navigating injuries in key attacking positions. With their captain sidelined, the team will look to Ferran Torres, Joao Felix, or youngster Marc Guiu to fill the gap in attack.
For Barcelona fans, it’s another frustrating reminder of how international duty continues to disrupt club momentum — and this time, the damage may have come from within.
Messi Admits Müller Makes The MLS Cup Final “More Competitive” Lionel Messi is gearing up…
Courtois Acknowledges Ups And Downs With Alonso After Madrid’s Much-Needed Win Real Madrid finally hit…
Trent Alexander-Arnold Set For Two Months Out After Latest Injury Blow Real Madrid have confirmed…
William Troost-Ekong Bows Out In Emotional Goodbye Super Eagles fans woke up to unexpected news…
Joshua Zirkzee’s rollercoaster journey at Manchester United continues, and the Dutch striker remains one of…
Chelsea had a night to forget at Elland Road as Leeds United outclassed, outran, and…