Barcelona’s quest for a historic quadruple has been dealt a major setback after star striker Robert Lewandowski was diagnosed with a hamstring injury. The Polish forward, who has been instrumental this season with 40 goals in all competitions, is reportedly facing up to three weeks on the sidelines, according to Spanish media outlets.
The injury was confirmed on Sunday following medical tests, which revealed a semitendinosus muscle strain in his left thigh. The club did not specify a return date, but the timing couldn’t be worse for the Catalan giants.
Lewandowski, 36, was forced off the pitch during Barcelona’s narrow 4-3 La Liga win over Celta Vigo on Saturday — a match that saw him score and assist before his injury. His absence is expected to rule him out of crucial fixtures, including the much-anticipated Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid in Seville on April 26.
Beyond the domestic cup final, Barcelona’s Champions League dreams are also under threat. The team hosts Inter Milan in the semi-final first leg on April 30 before traveling to the San Siro on May 6. With Lewandowski sidelined, coach Hansi Flick faces a major selection dilemma ahead of two of the biggest games of the season.
Barcelona, currently leading the La Liga table, will also be without their talisman for upcoming league matches against Mallorca and Valladolid. There is cautious optimism that he could return in time for the El Clásico league clash against Real Madrid on May 11 — a fixture that may prove decisive in the title race.
Coach Flick has rotated between Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo in central attacking roles previously, and both players could be called upon to fill the void. The manager may also look to young talents such as Lamine Yamal or Marc Guiu to step up during this critical period.
Barcelona have already claimed the Spanish Super Cup this season and remain in contention for the La Liga title, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League — a feat no Spanish side has achieved since Barcelona’s treble in 2015. However, Lewandowski’s injury threatens to derail those ambitions at the final stretch.
The club and fans alike will be hoping for a speedy recovery, as the experienced forward’s leadership, goal-scoring prowess, and big-game mentality will be sorely missed in the defining moments of the season.
