Barcelona's Comeback Spark: Lewandowski Returns as Clasico Fallout Fuels Hope
27 October 2025
Lewandowski’s return to training and injury updates
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski joined Barcelona’s training session at the Joan Gamper sports complex on Monday, following the Clasico defeat.
He was absent from the Clasico at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday, as Barca fell 2-1 in La Liga round 10.
Barça’s radio reported that Lewandowski trained with squad players who did not start the Bernabeu match.
He is in the final stage of recovery after an injury sustained with Poland during the October camp.
Barcelona stated that Lewandowski is dealing with a left hamstring tear, but signs point to improvement and a potential return on Sunday against Elche in round 11.
The club noted that his contract runs through the end of this season, with renewal discussions still to be decided.
Argentine forward Julian Alvarez, from Atletico Madrid, has been linked with Barca should Lewandowski depart.
Meanwhile, optimism grows about goalkeeper Garcia, who recently underwent knee surgery for an internal meniscal tear; he will be evaluated next Wednesday upon resuming training.
Garcia joined Barca at the start of the season from Espanyol after paying the release clause.
Clasico analysis and the road ahead
Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid built on intense pressing and solid defense to edge Barca 2-1 at the Bernabeu, reasserting Madrid’s authority in the Clasico.
Madrid converted two goals, while three others were ruled offside by the tight offside line that has become a hallmark of Barca’s approach under pressure.
The piece notes that Carlo Ancelotti’s team has achieved significant European success in recent seasons, underscoring Madrid’s pedigree in big matches.
Madrid opened with a lineup designed to dominate the tempo, while Barca faced limited options due to injuries and absences, notably Rafinha, Lewandowski, and Arda Guler.
Jude Bellingham shone in midfield and attack, while Alonso’s tactics constrained Barcelona’s buildup and neutralized key Barca threats, including the Yamal and Dembele fronts on the flanks.
Barça’s players lacked full physical readiness, and Barcelona failed to convert several chances, with Madrid’s defense and countering threat proving decisive.
Alonso’s approach was praised for its defensive solidity and effective organization, though some argued he could have optimized substitutions to seal a larger lead.
In the end, Madrid’s pace and intensity told the story, while Barcelona continues to contend with depth issues and a looming question about Lewandowski’s contract and long-term plan. A win for Madrid, a reminder for Barca, and a whisper of transfer rumors in the background as the league moves on.
Punchline time: if Clasico drama had a warranty, this one would come with a two-goal installment plan and a monthly update from the rumor mill. Punchline two: in football as in dating apps, timing is everything—Madrid found the right moment, Barca is still swiping through the options.
