Why Isn’t Robert Lewandowski Playing Against Mallorca?
Barcelona, led by Hansi Flick and without Robert Lewandowski in the starting lineup, aims to bounce back after feeling the pressure of their eternal rival’s strong run. This Tuesday, the Blaugrana will look to return to winning ways and extend their lead at the top of La Liga as they visit Mallorca at Son Moix in a match rescheduled from Matchday 19.
Why Isn’t Robert Lewandowski Playing Against Mallorca?
The Catalan side arrives shaken after a surprising 2-1 home loss to Las Palmas at Camp Nou, a setback that cost them crucial points in the title race. While they remain at the top of the table with 34 points, their lead over Real Madrid, who have a game in hand, has shrunk to just one point.
Ahead of this crucial clash, Barcelona’s starting lineup surprised fans: Robert Lewandowski will not feature among the starters against Mallorca.
Strategic Rest for Lewandowski
Contrary to online speculation about a potential injury, Lewandowski’s absence is purely a technical decision by Flick. The German coach has chosen to rest the Polish striker, adhering to his rotation strategy to manage the squad's physical load during a congested schedule.
Except for Lewandowski, Flick will field his usual "ideal XI," with young standout Lamine Yamal as one of the team's key players. The rising star continues to establish himself as a vital figure in important matches, as Barcelona seeks to solidify their top spot in a challenging away fixture against Mallorca.
Updates on the Squad
Midfielder Marc Casadó, who missed Barcelona's last match against UD Las Palmas due to suspension, is the main addition to the squad for their rescheduled Matchday 19 fixture in LaLiga.
Barcelona’s coach, German Hansi Flick, will also have left-back Alejandro Balde available, despite the player not finishing the game against Las Palmas after sustaining a severe neck impact. Additionally, midfielder Dani Olmo, who was benched in the previous match due to minor discomfort, is fit and ready to play.
However, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, central defenders Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen, midfielder Marc Bernal, and forward Ansu Fati remain sidelined due to injuries.