Many argue that Flick made this change at a crucial time match. Osasuna was leading “only” by one goal when Marc Casado replaced Lewandowski in the 70th minute. Ultimately, Barca lost 2-4, conceding two more goals without the Pole on the pitch.
Flick explains Lewandowski's substitution. “I need rest”
Why did Hansi Flick decide to take Lewandowski off with 20 minutes left in the match? – Because he also needs rest – he said at a press conference. – That's what it looks like. Everyone should rest. He is strong, but we play every three days and we do it for his good, added the German.
For Lewandowski, this is the fourth match this season without scoring a goal. Previously, he also missed against Rayo Vallecano and Girona in La Liga, as well as in the Champions League against Monaco. Pau Victor and Lamine Yamal scored the goals for Barcelona against Osasuna.
Flick's risk cost Barcelona three points
The change made by Flick was part of the approach to the match that the German announced before the first whistle. In the face of many injuries that plague Barcelona, its coach took a risk by starting the squad without all the most important players and giving some less time on the pitch than usual. This was the case with Lewandowski. Unfortunately for the coach and Barca, this move cost the club its first loss of points this season. Perhaps, however, it was more valuable in the context of subsequent weeks of intense play on three fronts.
So far Barcelona beat everyone, and in this match Osasuna clearly kept the initiative from the beginning – they were leading 2-0 after the first half and Ante Budimir's header goals in the 18th minute, and then Bryan Zaragoza in the 28th minute. Pau Victor responded with a no-contact goal in the 53rd minute, taking advantage of an error by Osasuna's goalkeeper, Sergio Herrera. However, then the hosts added two more goals – Budimir's penalty kick in the 72nd minute and Abel Bretones thirteen minutes later. The Catalans tried to make up for the loss, but they only had enough strength for one goal – by Lamine Yamal in the 89th minute. Despite seven minutes of added time, they failed to score another goal.
Barcelona will remain the leader in the La Liga table after eight rounds with 21 points. However, she is waiting for the result of Sunday's Madrid derby, which will indicate who will be behind her and what her advantage will be over the other team. If he wins Realit will be only one point, and if Atletico – three points. The meeting is scheduled for 9:00 p.m.