Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has publicly criticized Xavi Hernandez’s tactics, saying sometimes he does not have enough support from attacking players.
The former Bayern Munich striker had been struggling this season, and his first goal came as a tap-in against Villarreal.
The Polish striker feels more attackers should be involved in Xavi Hernandez’s tactics.
He said, “We are Barcelona, and we are expected not only to win but to play good attacking football.”
“Lately, that has not been as it should be, so we have been fighting to create more chances in games.”
“When we see Ferran come on or Ansu, two players who go forward, we create more chances. Sometimes we don’t play with enough attacking players; I don’t have support, so I look for the best solution for the team.”
Xavi sacrificed the 4-3-3 formation that he used to win the La Liga title last season by adding another midfielder, which made the club more defensive than attacking.
Barcelona now make use of Ikay Gundogan, Pedri, Orielu Romeo, and Frenkie De Jong in the midfield.
When Barcelona played against Cadiz on August 20, 2023, Xavi started with four midfielders, but when he decided to bring in more attackers, Barcelona scored two goals.
On August 27, 2023, against Villarreal, Barcelona were looking like the losing team until the manager brought in Ferran Torres, who totally changed the game.
With the loss of Ousmane Dembele, Robert Lewandowski wouldn’t have his most creative partner up front. In addition, Barcelona youngsters Ansu Fati had also moved to Brighton on loan until 2024.
Robert Lewandowski is well known as a vocal player who showed what he was capable of during Pep Guardiola’s tenure at Bayern Munich.
Xavi had always talked about the striker’s leadership in the squad, coupled with how he made youngsters settle in easily at the club.
However, in order to compete for the Silverware this season, the club will try everything possible to bring in another attacker before the end of the transfer window.
What Next for Robert Lewandowski and Barcelona?
The La Liga giants, Barcelona, who currently sit in fourth place on the La Liga table, will face Osasuna away from home on September 3, 2023, at 8:00 p.m.
Robert Lewandowski will be hoping everything changes so that he can score more goals this season. However, it is left for Xavi to listen to Robert Lewandowski.
On the other hand, it was revealed that Barcelona are not close to signing any experienced attacker, even with the transfer window closing on September 1, 2023.
The only player who may join the Spanish giant before the transfer window ends is Joao Cancelo from Manchester City.
What do you think about Robert Lewandowski’s statement on Xavi’s tactics? Air your views in the comments section.