Barcelona is facing internal tensions in their attack, as key players Rafinha and Lamine Yamal express dissatisfaction with the team’s dynamics. The club has only earned five points out of 18, allowing rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid to close in on the top of the table, with both teams likely to overtake Barcelona soon.
According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, despite their hard work both offensively and defensively, Rafinha and Yamal are frustrated with the role of striker Robert Lewandowski. At 36, Lewandowski is struggling to keep up with his younger, more energetic teammates.
Recently, Rafinha and Yamal have been doing much of the pressing and running, while Lewandowski remains more stationary, focusing primarily on scoring. This shift has created an imbalance in the attack, as the aging striker’s physical limitations are affecting his overall contribution.
Sources close to the team suggest that Hansi Flick is aware of the situation. While Lewandowski’s goal-scoring remains important, his physical decline has reduced his ability to contribute to crucial aspects like high pressing or quick transitions. As a result, players like Rafinha and Yamal have had to shoulder more responsibility, which could negatively impact their performance in the long run.
Rafinha is in excellent form, and Yamal continues to impress with his maturity despite his youth. Both players respect Lewandowski’s past contributions but feel that the team needs to adjust its style of play to avoid overburdening them with off-the-ball duties.
With an important match against Atletico Madrid upcoming, Flick has limited time to address these issues. The game is crucial not only for the La Liga title race but also for determining whether Barcelona can restore balance and effectiveness to their attack.
