‘Just like Cristiano Ronaldo’: Barcelona’s Hansi Flick lights a fire with bold Robert Lewandowski claim ahead of UEFA Champions League clash
As Barcelona prepare for a decisive UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund, all eyes are on one man whose consistency and impact remain nothing short of remarkable. Robert Lewandowski, at 36 years old, has once again proven that age is but a number—netting 40 goals in 46 appearances this season. And now, just ahead of one of the most important matches of the campaign, head coach Hansi Flick has made a stunning comparison that raises eyebrows across Europe.
The Blaugrana travel to Germany with a commanding 4-0 lead over Dortmund, earned in a dazzling first-leg display at the Camp Nou. That night, Lewandowski was at the heart of the performance, scoring twice and spearheading an attack that tore through the Bundesliga side’s defense with ruthless efficiency.
Now, as the team touches down in Flick’s homeland for the return leg, the mission is clear: finish what they started and book a ticket to the semi-finals. But in the final training session before the clash, there was a moment of uncertainty. The Polish veteran was seen in slight discomfort, clutching his thigh and engaging in discussions with Barcelona’s medical staff.
Should the prolific forward not be fully fit, Flick may be forced to turn to Ferran Torres alongside Raphinha and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in the front three. However, there is no mistaking the void Lewandowski would leave behind—not just in goals, but in presence.
What did Hansi Flick say?
Though the full extent of Lewandowski’s condition remains uncertain, Flick took a moment in his pre-match press conference to highlight just how rare his No. 9 is.
“When you play at this level at this age… on one hand, it comes down to his fitness, and on the other hand, he takes great care of himself,” the German manager said. “Like Cristiano Ronaldo, he has an amazing physical structure. He is very professional and controls all factors to deliver optimal performance.”
The reference to Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to chase the 1,000-goal milestone in Saudi Arabia at age 40, wasn’t made lightly. Flick clearly believes Lewandowski belongs in the same elite bracket, not just for his longevity but for his relentless dedication to the craft.
“It’s noticeable to have a player of his caliber on the team. He has a lot of experience and we count on him a lot,” Flick added. “Every day, he shows what he’s capable of and has all the qualities that make him a good player. He’s a great example for the rest of us.”
One goal away from a century
Beyond the immediate task of sending Dortmund packing, Lewandowski has personal history on the line. If he finds the net again, it will be his 100th goal in a Barcelona shirt, a milestone reached in just 141 appearances since joining from Bayern Munich in July 2022. And what better stage to complete the century than against the club where his rise to international stardom first took shape?
There’s something poetic about the narrative: a seasoned veteran, returning to Germany, standing on the cusp of history, leading a new generation of Blaugrana stars into a European semi-final. It’s the kind of storyline soccer lives for.