We finally know why Robert Lewandowski was not wanted by Xavi at the end of his two and a half years in office.
Due to the dismissal of Xavi Hernandez and the imminent arrival of Hansi Flick as head of the team, it is expected that a number of situations regarding FC Barcelona players are about to change. One of them is Robert Lewandowski, who was unwanted by Xavi at the end of his two and a half year tenure.
Xavi wanted Lewandowski sold this summer for multiple reasons, according to Sport. Two of these were tactical, with the Polish striker not considered to have enough energy or intensity to lead the front line of the press. Xavi felt Lewandowski’s off-ball efforts were insufficient. Secondly, Xavi wanted a striker who could link the play better, which Lewandowski did not know how to do according to him.
Lewandowski is not a leader according to Xavi
Catalunya Radio further claims that another reason why Xavi wanted Lewandowski gone was his lack of empathy towards the younger members of the first team. In Xavi’s eyes, the 35-year-old was too demanding of players who are still “very soft football-wise” – a trait he did not want in a dressing room leader.
With Flick’s arrival, it is likely that Lewandowski will stay for at least one more season, given that both men worked successfully at Bayern Munich. It remains to be seen whether a model of similar form can follow at Barcelona.
