Veteran Barcelona star likely to return to starting XI against Atletico Madrid
Veteran Barcelona star likely to return to starting XI against Atletico Madrid Barcelona manager Hansi Flick appears ready to make a decisive attacking switch ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final clash against Atletico Madrid , with Robert Lewandowski expected to return to the starting XI. According to a report from MARCA , the Polish striker is set to lead the line at the Spotify Camp Nou, as Flick looks to tweak his setup following last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Diego Simeone’s side in La Liga. In that match, Flick surprised many by leaving both Lewandowski and Ferran Torres on the bench.
Instead, the German opted for a more fluid approach, deploying Dani Olmo as a false nine. While the experiment brought tactical flexibility and unpredictability, it now appears to have been a short-term solution rather than a long-term shift. Olmo to the bench Olmo’s heavy involvement in that game could be a strong sign.
Having played the full 90 minutes, the Spaniard is now expected to start on the bench , opening the door for Lewandowski to reclaim his role as the focal point of Barcelona’s attack. Lewandowski comes into this fixture in strong form, having scored the winning goal in the previous encounter against Atletico. That strike means he has now netted three goals in his last three matches.
Lewandowski scored the winning goal against Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images) Beyond his recent form, there is another factor pushing Flick towards this decision – Ferran Torres’ struggles. The Spanish forward has endured a difficult run, failing to score since January.
In fact, he has now gone 12 consecutive appearances without finding the back of the net, raising serious concerns about his effectiveness in front of goal. Despite Flick’s continued public backing, the numbers tell their own story. At this level, and in a competition as unforgiving as the Champions League, efficiency in attack is non-negotiable.