Barcelona’s defeat to Atlético Madrid has had a clear impact on the team’s dressing room, with some voices calling for changes to the starting lineup.
The Catalan side suffered their third consecutive home defeat this season, a streak that has sparked a wave of internal and external criticism of the club’s sports management.
Lionel Messi caused a huge shock in football circles after his remarks about Barcelona striker “Robert Lewandowski” following the team’s resounding 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid.
In an interview with “Radio Catalunya”, Messi expressed his dissatisfaction with Lewandowski’s continued inclusion in the starting lineup, stressing that Barcelona cannot compete for major titles with the Polish striker performing at his current level.
Messi said: “How can Barcelona compete for titles with this player in the starting lineup? I don’t want him to get angry with me, but that’s the truth.” Messi’s statement came at a sensitive time, as Barcelona are suffering a decline in results, particularly after Lewandowski failed to capitalize on the opportunities he had in the last match, leading some to question his future at the club.
It seems Messi is implying that the club needs to re-evaluate the attacking lineup, suggesting it may be time to look for alternatives who can provide the offensive power the team currently lacks. Meanwhile, Lewandowski is facing immense pressure following his decline in form, as his performance has become a growing concern for both the club’s management and its fans.