Pedri and Rafinha, fed up with the Barcelona star’s disastrous performance, are asking Hansi Flick to sign the superstar urgently

FC Barcelona’s recent victory over Benfica in the Champions League round of 16 was a thrilling affair that highlighted both the team’s strengths and its lingering weaknesses. Among the standout performers were Lamine Yamal and Pedri, two young stars who have been instrumental in Barcelona’s resurgence this season. Yamal’s brilliance on the wings and Pedri’s midfield mastery were crucial in securing the win, further cementing their roles as key players in Hansi Flick’s setup.

However, despite the victory, concerns have emerged within the Barcelona camp regarding the team’s attacking options. According to reports from Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Pedri and Rafinha are growing increasingly frustrated with the current state of Barcelona’s frontline. While Robert Lewandowski remains a proven goal scorer, his performances in crucial matches have not met the expectations of his teammates or the tactical demands of Flick.

Lewandowski, now 36, has undoubtedly been a phenomenal asset for Barcelona, netting over 30 goals across all competitions this season. However, in high-intensity encounters, his lack of mobility and declining pace have become apparent. Against Benfica, the Polish striker squandered several clear-cut opportunities, a trend that has troubled both Pedri and Rafinha. They believe that a more dynamic and versatile striker is needed to complement Barcelona’s attacking play.

Both Pedri and Rafinha have reportedly urged Hansi Flick to push for the signing of a new top-tier forward ahead of the next transfer window. One name that has emerged as a potential target is Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak. The Swedish international has been in sensational form, combining pace, technical ability, and clinical finishing—qualities that Barcelona’s current attack desperately lacks.

The duo’s concerns are not without merit. Lewandowski’s form has dipped in several key moments this season, often struggling to keep up with the pace set by Barcelona’s youthful wingers. Flick’s system thrives on high-intensity pressing and fluid attacking movement, attributes that Lewandowski is increasingly finding difficult to maintain. His positioning and finishing ability remain exceptional, but modern football demands more from a center-forward, especially in a team with Barcelona’s aspirations.

Barcelona’s ambitions of reclaiming European dominance hinge on a well-balanced squad. With Yamal and Rafinha excelling on the flanks, the missing piece in Flick’s puzzle appears to be a striker who can link up effectively with the rest of the attack. Lewandowski’s presence, while still valuable, no longer guarantees the level of dynamism required to challenge for titles on multiple fronts.

This situation is reminiscent of past struggles at the club, where a failure to adequately replace aging stars led to transitional difficulties. Pedri and Rafinha recognize this pattern and are keen to avoid another prolonged period of mediocrity. Their plea for reinforcements signals a growing awareness within the squad that changes are necessary to sustain success at the highest level.

The pressure is now on Barcelona’s board to act decisively. Flick has already identified the need for a long-term solution in the striking department, and Isak’s name keeps surfacing in transfer discussions. The Swede’s ability to play both as a traditional striker and a more fluid forward makes him an ideal candidate for Barcelona’s evolving tactical setup.

Financial constraints could pose a challenge, but Barcelona has historically found ways to secure high-profile signings even in difficult circumstances. With several players potentially on the transfer list, the club could generate the necessary funds to facilitate a move for a marquee forward. The growing impatience among key players could further expedite the process.

Another pressing issue is whether Lewandowski himself is prepared to accept a reduced role in the squad. While he remains an elite finisher, the transition to a more rotational role could be inevitable. If Barcelona secures a younger, more agile striker, Flick may have to manage Lewandowski’s minutes more carefully to ensure his contributions remain impactful without compromising the team’s tactical fluidity.

Moreover, this debate extends beyond just individual performances. It highlights a broader strategic challenge for Barcelona—how to balance experience with emerging talent. Yamal and Pedri represent the future, but they need a forward who can match their energy and complement their style of play. Isak, or another striker of similar profile, could be the missing ingredient in Barcelona’s attacking formula.

As the season progresses, the urgency to address this issue will only grow. Barcelona has shown flashes of brilliance under Flick, but consistency in the final third remains a work in progress. The Champions League is an unforgiving competition, and without a reliable goal scorer who fits Flick’s vision, Barcelona’s chances of competing with Europe’s elite could be compromised.

Pedri and Rafinha’s public stance on this matter sends a clear message: Barcelona cannot afford complacency. The club must be proactive in the transfer market to build a squad capable of sustaining success in the long term. Lewandowski’s legendary status is undeniable, but football evolves, and so must Barcelona’s attacking strategy.

Flick faces a delicate balancing act in the coming months. He must manage squad dynamics, oversee potential transfers, and ensure that his tactical vision aligns with the club’s recruitment strategy. The voices of Pedri and Rafinha reflect not just personal concerns but a broader recognition of what Barcelona needs to reach the next level.

If Barcelona heeds their warning and moves swiftly in the transfer market, the club could secure its attacking future while maintaining competitiveness across all competitions. The next few months will be crucial in shaping the team’s trajectory, and how Barcelona navigates this challenge could define its success for years to come.