Robert Lewandowski perfect in preseason debut; eyes a bounce-back year

Last season was admittedly a “difficult one” for one of Europe’s most decorated strikers. While Lewandowski’s goal contribution tally only dipped by six — from 41 during the 2022/23 campaign to 35 last year — the lauded striker endured more blunders in front of goal than any previous season, missing what seemed to be a surefire goal on more than a few occasions.

The 36-year-old forward subtly irked Barcelona supporters throughout the La Liga campaign with patches of inconsistent play. His uncharacteristic lapses in judgment stirred speculation of a potential decline, and by the end of the year, concern evolved into condemnation among certain pockets of Culers.

With his sights set on proving his doubters wrong, Lewandowski is prepared for a huge season with head coach Hansi Flick at the helm. The German previously managed the Bundesliga behemoth FC Bayern from 2019-2021, which also happened to be some of Lewandowski's most memorable seasons in Munich. The pair made history together in 2020 during Flick's first season in charge, capturing the invincible treble — the German Cup, Bundesliga, and Champions League trophies — and etching their names into football lore forever.

Now, the player-coach duo faces a more daunting task: Restoring pride in the Catalan capital and leading FC Barcelona back to the apex of Spanish football. Returning from his summer vacation following his participation in this past European Championship, Lewandowski joined Barca on their preseason tour for a clash against Italian giants AC Milan.

Lewy immediately rediscovered his knack for the back of the net, recording two beautiful goals within 30 minutes of one another. Barcelona would fall behind 2-0 in the first 20 minutes before Raphinha set the Pole up for a perfect strike from about 15 yards out. Lewandowski scored Barca's second goal in the 58th minute, placing a perfect cross from Pau Victor past the Milan goalkeeper.

Hansi Flick has been singing his strikers' praise to the Spanish media since he arrived in Catalonia, and the manager heaped even more praise on Lewandowski after his impressive preseason debut.

"Today we must talk about Lewandowski. He deserved the two goals, and he worked hard for them."

- Hansi Flick

The relationship between the manager and his player is one built on mutual respect — and undeniable results. Flick seems to bring the best out of Lewandowski, and his best will be required if Barcelona is to unseat Real Madrid atop the La Liga table.

"I am very happy and satisfied to be working with Hansi again. I believe that we will have a great season and end up holding a trophy in our hands."

- Robert Lewandowski