Barcelona’s season has already been filled with questions surrounding Hansi Flick’s tactical setup, and the upcoming weeks could define whether the German’s project gains stability or spirals into deeper uncertainty.
The Blaugrana entered the international break under pressure after a series of disappointing results, with their performances in Europe and La Liga raising alarm bells among fans and pundits alike.
Flick has been using the break to reassess his tactical approach, particularly in attack, where inconsistency has been a recurring issue.
As the return of club football approaches, all eyes are on Barcelona’s response to adversity, especially with the much-anticipated El Clasico looming at the end of October.
The fixture against Real Madrid is one of the defining moments of any season, and this year it arrives at a delicate time for the Catalans, who have been struggling with both form and fitness.
Flick’s challenge is now not only strategic but also physical, as his squad continues to be plagued by injuries in key areas of the pitch.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have suffered a fresh setback with Robert Lewandowski picking up a hamstring tear while on international duty with Poland.
The veteran striker is expected to be sidelined for around four weeks, which effectively rules him out of the El Clasico.
The timing couldn’t be worse, as Robert Lewandowski was working hard to reclaim his starting role after Ferran Torres had been given more minutes in recent matches.
The Polish forward’s absence compounds Barcelona’s growing injury list.
Joan Garcia is already unavailable, while Dani Olmo and Raphinha remain doubtful for the Madrid clash.
Despite these challenges, there’s some good news for Flick: Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez, and Lamine Yamal are expected to be fit and ready to feature, easing the attacking strain slightly.
Lewandowski’s injury means he will also miss key fixtures against Girona, Olympiacos, Elche, Club Brugge, and Celta Vigo.
Additionally, Poland will be without him for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against the Netherlands and Malta.
If all goes according to plan, Lewandowski could make his return in late November, just in time for Barcelona’s crucial La Liga meeting with Athletic Club and a high-stakes Champions League clash against Chelsea.
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