Barcelona senior player understands his reduced role in team this season | OneFootball

Robert Lewandowski may very well be playing his final season at FC Barcelona, with his contract set to expire on 30 June.

The 37-year-old superstar’s wife, Anna Lewandowska, seemed to hint at that possibility during a recent interview, although a final decision on his future has yet to be made.

In fact, reports earlier this week even suggested that Barcelona are considering offering the Pole a short-term extension on a reduced salary.

Lewandowski understanding of his limited role

Now, SPORT reports that Lewandowski has been more understanding and accepting of his reduced role in the team this season than he would have been in the past in his career.

The veteran superstar has played noticeably fewer minutes (1,414) than Ferran Torres (1,725), the other No. 9 most frequently used by Hansi Flick in the ongoing campaign.

Lewandowski is playing lesser minutes than Ferran Torres. (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images)

Lewandowski, set to turn 38 years old in a few months, knows that he is at a different stage of his career. In the past, such irregular minutes might have prompted complaints or frustration; now, he seems more understanding of the role and requirements.

However, the Poland captain’s goalscoring instincts remain razor-sharp. He has netted 12 goals so far this term, averaging one every 93 minutes in La Liga and every 118 minutes across all competitions, which is pure gold for Flick and the team.

That said, sustaining the intensity in pressing demanded by the German coach is becoming more difficult for Lewandowski. This is where Ferran has the edge in minutes: he not only provides goals, but also greater defensive sacrifice and more runs in behind.

That may end up playing a role in the final decision over his future, but for now, Lewandowski is accepting of his role in the team and continues to deliver in front of the goal.