Barcelona veteran ready to reclaim starting place after impressive international run – ‘Like a gradual re-entry’ | OneFootball

Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski has finally kicked off his 2025/26 season by finding the back of the net for the Polish national team.

The veteran striker returned to international duty following changes in the coaching staff, and his presence proved crucial in Poland’s victory against Finland in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

Lewandowski’s tactical awareness was evident throughout the match. He not only scored but also contributed with an assist, showing that his attacking influence remains sharp.

Reflecting on the tactical adjustments, Lewandowski explained how his role differed from the previous fixture.

“The previous game against the Netherlands, I had a specific mission: to mark Frenkie de Jong.”

His approach worked for his national team as Poland drew the match 1-1, thanks to an 80th-minute goal from Matty Cash.

More freedom leads to greater impact

Notably, after the 1-1 draw against the Dutch, Lewandowski made it clear that he would take on a more offensive role against Finland. Interestingly, this is exactly what he did.

Lewandowski scored a goal against Finland. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“Yes, in the last match, my role was to stop the opponent’s midfield, specifically De Jong, and I really worked hard at this task.”

This time, he was given more freedom to influence the attack, a decision that paid off. Describing his performance against Finland, the Barcelona striker admitted that the increased attacking responsibility allowed him to shine.

“I came onto the pitch against Finland more involved in attacking duties and with more freedom to play, which allowed me to enjoy myself.”

Getting into the Barcelona lineup

Lastly, the veteran forward was asked if these two international matches would help him get back in Barcelona’s starting XI, to which he said,

“Yes, today I played a few minutes than planned, but I was ready for it because I had it in my mind that the season would truly start for me in September.

“Usually, I would’ve played only 10-15 minutes, but I don’t think that would’ve changed much.

“The two matches against the Netherlands and Finald were like a gradual re-entry for me,” he noted.

Source: Mundo Deportivo