The build-up to Barcelona’s journey to the Carlos Tartiere Stadium to face newly-promoted Actual Oviedo carried the standard expectation: the Blaugrana, recent off a commanding 3-0 win over Getafe, had been tipped to increase their unbeaten La Liga begin. But, the headlines earlier than kickoff middle on one thing uncommon — Robert Lewandowski isn’t named within the beginning XI.
At first, the omission raised eyebrows. With so many accidents already affecting Hansi Flick’s aspect, the absence of their marquee striker added one other layer of intrigue. Was it precautionary? Tactical? Or one thing else totally?
The Catalans arrive in Asturias on the again of a powerful run, unbeaten of their opening 5 La Liga matches with 4 wins and one draw, and with a recreation in hand to doubtlessly shut the hole on leaders Actual Madrid. After a shaky September, the crew had rediscovered type, mixing youth with skilled heads to climb again into competition.
Their opponent, Actual Oviedo, is relishing its long-awaited return to Spain’s high flight after 24 years within the wilderness. The Asturian membership had virtually gone out of enterprise at one level, saved solely by contributions from former gamers and followers. Its revival has been exceptional, however the hole in high quality is clear. With 4 defeats of their opening 5 matches and solely a single aim scored, Oviedo’s fairytale return has shortly become a battle for survival.
The rationale why Lewandowski begins on the bench
Barcelona’s personal preparations haven’t been simple. Flick has needed to juggle an extended listing of absentees. Gavi is out for at the least 5 months after present process knee surgical procedure, whereas Fermín Lopez joined him on the sidelines with a muscle harm. Lamine Yamal, the Ballon d’Or runner-up, has been lacking for weeks however is closing in on a return towards Actual Sociedad. In the meantime, Alejandro Balde remains to be recovering from a hamstring harm.
All indicators instructed the Blaugrana would nonetheless have an excessive amount of firepower for a struggling Oviedo — however the absence of their principal striker nonetheless loomed giant. Robert Lewandowski had been dropped to the bench as soon as once more. Flick’s determination was not injury-related however a tactical transfer formed by type. Torres’ robust performances within the center-forward position, capped with targets and urgent power, had earned him the beginning nod over the Polish veteran.
This isn’t a one-off both. Because the starting of the season, the Spaniard has been performing effectively, incomes him the beginning nod as a substitute of the Polish veteran. The choice illustrates the fragile balancing act Flick faces.
At 36, Lewandowski stays a world-class presence however should now cope with youthful, sharper teammates who’re making their case for normal beginning roles. The Polish striker remains to be anticipated to function, however for now, he performs the position of affect substitute quite than undisputed starter.
