Robert Lewandowski Scout Report At Barcelona 2022/2023: How Will He Help Xavi Make Barca A Force In Europe Again – Tactical Analysis

Robert Lewandowski has been one of the most deadly and complete forwards in the past decade.

He has proven himself in the Bundesliga with both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, netting 312 goals and 75 assists in 384 games, as well as 86 goals and 25 assists in 106 Champions League matches.

Even while playing for a slightly weaker side, the Polish national team, he has scored 76 goals in 132 games.

After eight seasons at Bayern, Lewandowski felt it was time for a new change of scenery in his personal life and professional career.

One filled with winning trophies and breaking goal-scoring records, which he hopes to carry on in his spell at Barcelona.

Barcelona has just signed Andreas Christensen, Franck Kessié, and Raphinha, and is eyeing further defensive signings.

However, it appears we are set to miss out on Jules Kounde, who is reportedly set to move to Chelsea.

These transfers are a statement of intent that Barcelona is not here to mess about.

They will definitely challenge for the La Liga trophy and, if defensive reinforcements arrive, will likely be eyeing the Champions League.

This scout report will provide a tactical analysis of Robert Lewandowski’s style of play, his role at Barcelona, and whether the £50 million transfer fee was a worthwhile investment.

Furthermore, Barcelona tactics will be reviewed, with an analysis detailing how Xavi will set up his team.

How does Barcelona play?

FC Barcelona Structure

In November 2021, Xavi joined an underachieving Barcelona side that had lost its identity following Lionel Messis departure, and significant changes were needed.

Since then, Xavi has gotten his team to play like the Barcelona sides he used to play in, controlling the ball and creating chance after chance.

Barcelona have averaged 63% possession and 13 shots per game, although only 36% of those have been on target.

Since Xavis appointment, Barcelona has collected three points fewer than Real Madrid, the La Liga and Champions League winners.

This can be seen as a success, given the failures of previous seasons and the emergence of young players getting regular game time for the first time this season.

One significant factor in the improved performance is the quality structure Xavi has instilled into his side.

The picture below shows Barcelona setting up in a 2-3-5 formation, which allows the deep player to be close to the ball for ball retention.

The front five occupy the vertical five lanes of the pitch, from which they can attack the oppositions back line or combine with each other.

This helps Barcelona sustain pressure on the opposition, enabling them to create chances frequently.

Barcelona Creativity

Barcelona created deadly chances from all over the pitch due to their ability to control all zones of the attacking third.

One area where they are particularly effective is in wide areas, where wingers are left 1v1 and they can run at their defender.

Thanks to Barc