Lewandowski Faces New Test After World Cup Heartbreak

Barcelona faces a pivotal stretch of their season, with upcoming LaLiga and Champions League fixtures against Atletico Madrid. Manager Hansi Flick is counting on Robert Lewandowski's resilience and professional mindset to navigate this crucial period, especially after Poland's World Cup qualification failure. Lewandowski's focus has reportedly shifted entirely to club duties.

The team's preparations have been hampered by an injury to Raphinha while on international duty with Brazil, adding to Flick's selection concerns in attack. Despite these setbacks, Flick highlighted the squad's depth and the importance of accepting such footballing realities.

Barcelona currently leads LaLiga and will face Atletico Madrid in league play before meeting them again in the Champions League quarter-finals. Historical statistics suggest a close contest, with recent data indicating Barcelona as slight favorites despite some away form vulnerabilities.

Positive news emerges with the return of defenders Kounde and Balde, and Eric. Frenkie de Jong is expected to rejoin group training next week, though a cautious approach to his recovery is planned.