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Barcelona’s quest for a historic treble has hit a critical roadblock as star striker Robert Lewandowski faces a spell on the sidelines with a thigh injury. The Polish talisman, who has been the Catalans’ attacking linchpin this season, suffered the setback during their dramatic La Liga win over Celta Vigo. With a packed schedule of season-defining matches ahead, the burning question looms: Will Lewandowski recover in time for Wednesday’s clash against Mallorca? The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding no—and his absence could ripple far beyond.
Robert Lewandowski’s injury timeline shakes Barcelona’s treble dreams
Tests confirmed Robert Lewandowski injured his semitendinosus muscle—a key part of the hamstring group in his left thigh—during a routine sprint in the second half against Celta Vigo. The 36-year-old attempted to play through the pain but collapsed moments later, forcing an immediate substitution.
Barcelona’s medical team has since revealed the striker will miss two to three weeks, ruling him out of Wednesday’s Mallorca clash and casting doubt over his availability for pivotal fixtures.
Matches at Risk
Mallorca (La Liga, April 10): Confirmed absence.
El Clásico Copa del Rey Final (April 26): Highly unlikely.
Champions League Semifinal 1st Leg vs. Inter Milan (April 30): Expected to miss.
Real Valladolid (La Liga, May 3): Doubtful.
Champions League Semifinal 2nd Leg vs. Inter (May 6): Possible but optimistic.
La Liga El Clásico vs. Real Madrid (May 11): Target return date if recovery stalls.
Who steps up
With Robert Lewandowski sidelined, Ferran Torres is poised to lead Barcelona’s attack. The Spanish forward has deputized as a false nine this season, but replicating Lewandowski’s output—40 goals across all competitions—is a daunting task.
Torres’ movement and link-up play offer tactical flexibility, yet his finishing pales in comparison to the Pole’s lethal efficiency. Manager Xavi Hernández may also turn to Ansu Fati or deploy Gavi in a advanced role to compensate.
Why this hurts Barcelona
Lewandowski isn’t just a goal machine; he’s the focal point of Barcelona’s build-up play. His hold-up ability, aerial dominance, and knack for clutch goals have propelled their La Liga lead and Champions League charge. Without him, the team loses a psychological edge, particularly in high-stakes matches like El Clásico.
Silver Linings
Barcelona’s depth will be tested, but younger players like Torres and Fati have a chance to shine. The Catalans also face Mallorca and Valladolid—winnable games even without their star—before the Inter Milan showdown. If Robert Lewandowski returns for the second leg or the May 11 Clásico, it could inject a late-season surge.
Barcelona’s treble hopes now hinge on navigating a gauntlet without their top scorer. As Xavi said, “We’ve overcome challenges before.” But with Lewandowski’s boots irreplaceable, the next three weeks could define their season—or unravel it.
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