Barcelona left sweating over fitness of key player following injury scare on international duty: Reports
Barcelona are concerned about the fitness of star forward Robert Lewandowski following an injury scare while on international duty, according to SPORT. The Polish striker was subject to a tough tackle from Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovi, who received his marching orders.
Lewandowski started the Nations League game from the bench, following a slight knock during warmup. However, with his team losing 2-3, Poland coach Michał Probierz opted to bring on the 36-year-old.
The move turned to be a masterstroke, with the Barcelona ace setting up Sebastian Szymanski in the 68th minute to level the score. Lewandowski was at the receiving end of a fierce tackle from Livakori in the 76th minute, but opted to continue on the pitch.
The player was seen limping after the game, which further added to the Catalans' concern. The LaLiga giants have suffered with injuries to the likes of Dani Olmo this season, and cannot afford to add to the treatment table.
However, speaking to reporters after the game, the Polish striker insisted that he is fine.
“The leg is fine,” said Lewandowski via Barca Universal.
Barcelona will be least pleased with the situation, with Lamine Yamal also picking up a knock while on international duty. With games coming thick and fast now, Hansi Flick will be desperate to have his prized striker back fit.
How has Robert Lewandowski performed for Barcelona this season?
Robert Lewandowski was linked with an exit from Barcelona this summer. There were reports that the Catalans wanted his exorbitant wages off their books, but a move never materialized.
Instead, the Polish striker has rolled back the years under Hansi Flick and has been in red-hot form so far. Lewandowski has scored 12 goals and set up two more from 11 games across competitions so far.
His efforts have been crucial to Flick's golden start to life at Camp Nou. Barcelona have won nine of their 11 games across competitions this season, and are leading the LaLiga title race at the moment.
The Pole's contract with the club expires at the end of this campaign. However, his deal will be automatically renewed for an additional year if he plays a pre-defined number of games.
Lewandowski has already been indispensable under Flick so far, so it is highly likely that he will carry on for another season. As such, the German manager will also be concerned with his recent injury scare. With games against Bayern Munich and Real Madrid up ahead, Flick will be desperate to have the veteran striker back.