Hansi Flick has unearthed a Robert Lewandowski replacement, stepping up after the star striker suffered a debilitating injury.
The absence of key forwards has strained the Blaugrana’s depth, forcing Flick to dig into the club’s storied academy for solutions.
With a high-pressure system demanding dynamic, relentless players, a young talent from Barça Atletic is emerging as a potential savior, ready to seize a rare opportunity to shine on the senior stage.
According to Diario Sport, Victor Barbera, a 21-year-old striker, is being considered to step up following Robert Lewandowski’s 4-6 week absence due to a thigh muscle tear.
Nicknamed “Barberowski” for his lethal finishing, Barbera has dazzled with five goals and one assist in six matches for the reserves, averaging a goal involvement every 61 minutes.
His high work rate and pressing align perfectly with Flick’s philosophy, offering a natural fit to lead the line amid injuries to Raphinha (thigh) and Dani Olmo (calf).
Barbera’s rise mirrors La Masia’s tradition of producing timely heroes, like Lamine Yamal or Pau Cubarsí.
While yet to feature in Flick’s first-team plans, his clinical instincts and tenacity make him a compelling option against Girona’s stout defense.
With Lewandowski sidelined for El Clasico on October 26, alongside Gavi, Joan Garcia, and Marc-André ter Stegen, Barcelona’s reliance on youth is paramount.
Barbera’s potential debut could see him join Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford in a reshuffled attack.
Flick’s trust in academy prospects, honed at Bayern Munich, positions Barbera as a wildcard. His ability to press high and finish chances could stabilize Barcelona’s frontline, especially after recent attacking struggles against PSG and Sevilla.
If “Barberowski” translates his reserve form to the senior side, he could emulate Lewandowski’s impact, cementing La Masia’s legacy.
As Barcelona chases a 25-point lead, Flick’s bold call may unleash a new star, ready to ignite Camp Nou and carry the Blaugrana through a defining stretch.
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