Hans-Dieter Flick’s decision to bench Robert Lewandowski in favor of Ferran Torres as Barcelona’s main attacking option in their last match sparked significant debate.
While it was customary for the Polish striker to be rested during Copa del Rey fixtures, many expected him to start in such a crucial game, particularly given his lackluster display against Las Palmas.
However, Flick opted for Torres, who had impressed in the previous round by scoring a hat-trick against his former club, Valencia.
Despite this, Torres failed to deliver against Atlético Madrid, reinforcing concerns that he lacks the quality to lead the attack in high-stakes encounters. He squandered two golden opportunities, most notably a one-on-one situation when Barcelona was trailing 0-2.
His poor finishing allowed goalkeeper Juan Musso to make a crucial save. Moments later, he missed an open-goal chance, failing to convert the opportunity as the ball was cleared off the line. His inefficiency in front of goal frustrated the fans, and Flick substituted him in the 68th minute amid jeers from the stands.
Torres, who had been making strides in previous matches, found himself facing criticism after this underwhelming performance.
In the dressing room, some players questioned Flick’s decision to start him over Lewandowski, who had demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess even in limited minutes. Among those most vocal about their concerns were Frenkie de Jong and Raphinha, who reportedly disagreed with Flick’s choice.
For many, Lewandowski remains the best option as the leading striker, especially in critical matches against top-tier teams like Atlético Madrid. His experience, positioning, and finishing ability make him a vital asset in high-pressure situations.
Before Flick settled on Torres, De Jong and Raphinha had reportedly suggested an alternative: Dani Olmo. The duo believed Olmo, who has played in that role in past matches with success, could have been a more effective choice for this encounter.
Ultimately, Flick’s decision backfired, as Torres struggled to make an impact. The outcome of the match, coupled with the locker room unrest, raises questions about Barcelona’s attacking strategy moving forward. While Torres has shown flashes of brilliance, the expectations at a club like Barcelona demand more consistency, especially in decisive fixtures.
Whether Flick will reconsider his approach in upcoming matches remains to be seen, but the dissatisfaction among key players highlights the importance of making the right tactical choices in high-pressure games.
Leave a Reply