Arya News - Barcelona have been handed a major setback just days before the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. Their star striker, Robert Lewandowski, is almost certain to miss the high-stakes clash due to a...
Barcelona have been handed a major setback just days before the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. Their star striker, Robert Lewandowski, is almost certain to miss the high-stakes clash due to an injury he recently suffered.
While the Polish forward will undergo medical tests to confirm the full extent of the problem, early signs suggest that he will not be available for selection.
This development forces manager Hansi Flick to quickly rework his plans for the forward line. Lewandowski has been in brilliant form throughout the season, and his absence leaves a massive gap in Barcelona’s attack.
Flick now has to make an important decision on who will lead the line in what could be one of the most crucial matches of the season.
With Lewandowski out, Barcelona must find a reliable alternative who can bring the same level of performance and help deliver silverware.
Ferran Torres – A familiar face ready to step up
Ferran Torres is the natural successor. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
One of the most straightforward options available to Flick is Ferran Torres. The Spanish attacker has already proven his ability to play as a central striker and recently started in that role against Celta Vigo.
Not only did he perform well, but he also scored the opening goal of the match, once again showing his instinct in front of the goal.
Torres is no stranger to this position. Both Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, who are likely to feature on the wings in the final, are already used to playing alongside him when he is deployed as a centre forward.
Statistically, Torres has had a standout season. He has scored 17 goals across all competitions and reached double figures in La Liga alone.
His goal-scoring efficiency has also been impressive, with an average of one goal every 88 minutes . These numbers reflect his consistent contribution and confirm that he is enjoying his best campaign in a Barcelona shirt so far.
In terms of playing style, Torres is known for making smart runs into space and creating problems for defenders. His ability to stretch the opposition backline makes him a valuable option in the absence of Lewandowski.
For Flick, choosing Torres would be a safe and logical decision.
Dani Olmo – A creative and versatile alternative
Dani Olmo could be the trump card. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
If Flick chooses to explore a different route, Dani Olmo presents a strong alternative. Having just recovered from an injury himself, Olmo is now fit and could be deployed in a central attacking role.
While he is not a traditional striker, he has experience playing as a ‘ nine’, especially during his time with the Spanish national team.
Olmo is widely admired for his intelligence on the pitch and his ability to adapt to various positions. His vision and technical ability make him a strong option to link midfield and attack.
Although he does not bring the physical presence of Lewandowski, Olmo offers creativity and unpredictability—two qualities that could be key against a well-organised Real Madrid defence.
In the end, Flick’s decision will depend on the kind of approach he wants to take in the final.
Whether he leans towards the more direct and proven goal-scoring form of Torres or the dynamic and flexible qualities of Olmo, Barcelona still have solid options to lead the attack.
The absence of Lewandowski is a blow, but the team’s depth may allow them to manage the situation and still compete at the highest level.