Barcelona icon calls for Robert Lewandowski replacement to be signed – “A team like this…”

Barcelona will target a new defensive midfielder and left winger at the very minimum this summer, but one position they are seemingly happy with is striker. That is despite Marc Guiu leaving for Chelsea, Vitor Roque’s future being uncertain, and starter Robert Lewandowski turning 36 at the start of next season.

Lewandowski will undoubtedly begin the campaign as the number one option for Hansi Flick, despite glaring signs of his level falling off during the 2023-24 season. The situation concerns former Barcelona forward and club icon Rivaldo, who recently spoke on the matter (via Sport).

“Barcelona must start thinking about a replacement (for Lewandowski). A team like this has to have the best in the world playing with them. And that also means keeping an eye on the best players on the market in all positions, including centre-forward. Lewandowski is a world class star, that’s how he is, but we know sometimes that age and injuries can take their toll.”

Rivaldo does also hope that Lewandowski can return to a better level next season, despite his age.

“I hope that now Lewandowski can rest, that he recovers to be at his best again in Barcelona’s preseason. He can still have good years of football. Let’s remember that he has even been named the best player in the world and that he has a beautiful football history behind him. I just hope that age doesn’t take its toll.”

The Brazilian icon also spoke very glowingly of Lamine Yamal, whose first season in professional football (at the age of 16) has been mighty, to say the least.

“I can only congratulate him. That way of playing, that personality… It’s amazing! It’s very difficult to find a player in football who has that character, who plays with that joy. And he does everything with a lot of tranquillity, as if he had a lot of experience. He has a great future and will bring a lot of joy to the fans of Barcelona and the Spanish national team.”

Finally, Rivaldo also spoke on the speculation surrounding Barcelona’s interest in Athletic Club and Spain winger Nico Williams.

“He would be a great signing. Barcelona should pay attention to him during this European Championship and, depending on his performance, perhaps later on they will have more competition to sign him. But he would seem like a great option to me.”