Flick carefully managing Barcelona superstar’s minutes ahead of crucial phase of season | OneFootball

Even though he is 36 years old and closing in on 37, Barcelona veteran Robert Lewandowski remains in excellent physical condition.

At an age when many professionals begin considering retirement, the Barça centre-forward is going very strong, competing at the highest level.

Lewandowski leads the La Liga Pichichi race with 21 goals, three more than Kylian Mbappe. In the Champions League, he is the second-highest goalscorer, tied with Raphinha and Harry Kane on nine goals, just one behind leader Serhou Guirassy.

Hansi Flick being careful with Lewandowski

Given his importance to the team, SPORT reports that Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is carefully managing Lewandowski’s playing time, fully aware that the Pole is an essential player for the decisive moments of the season.

Not slowing down. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

For example, the centre-forward was left out of the squad altogether this past weekend for the cancelled match against Osasuna as he felt some fatigue and discomfort.

With Ferran Torres’ form improving, it has given Flick to rotate his centre-forward more regularly in recent weeks, allowing Lewandowski to rest and recuperate and stay sharp for the business end of the season.

Lewandowski fully committed

Since joining Barcelona, Lewandowski has scored 93 goals in 133 appearances, placing him in an elite position in the club’s history. Considering he has only been with the team for just over two and a half seasons, this achievement is remarkable.

The 36-year-old is in top form and has no intention of slowing down – quite the opposite. His contract guarantees him a fourth season at Barcelona, and he is determined to see it through.