Gabriel Sans: Xavi had privately and publicly expressed the need to improve the connection with Robert Lewandowski, who serves as Barça's main attacking threat. The lack of coordination with the team's top scorer has become a pressing issue since the World Cup in Qatar.
Xavi's preferred tactical formation, featuring four midfielders, doesn't seem to be the best fit for Lewandowski. This formation has been utilized in eight of the 16 games played after the World Cup, resulting in a majority of victories.
However, the team fell short against Manchester United and Almería, with Lewandowski only scoring three goals in these games (against Madrid, Betis, and in the defeat at Old Trafford from a penalty).
In the match against Almería, the absence of the striker was painfully evident. In the second half, Lewandowski was forced to move back to the midfield to retrieve the ball, and he was unable to create any significant chances despite his efforts.
The team's reliance on Pedri for generating attacking plays is also apparent, and Lewandowski has struggled without the youngster's assistance. The wingers, despite Raphinha's persistence, have not provided enough support either, and the quality of the passes has been subpar.
The Polish striker joined Barça to help the team move beyond its reliance on Messi, and his signing was deemed strategic not only for his goal-scoring ability but also for his emotional impact.
He has indeed motivated the team with his performance, scoring eight goals in his first five games, which is the best start for any of Barça's top strikers. However, his 25 goals in 31 games are not sufficient, even though they have helped the team reach its current position.
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