An understanding of the strategies from the individuals behind the curtain at La Liga champions Barcelona to replace first-choice striker Robert Lewandowski next season has emerged online.
The information is provided by Diario Sport and suggests that the Blaugrana are set to rely on a duo of rotation choices.
Kicking things off, it’s no surprise that Ferran Torres is first.
Adaptable forward Ferran has just completed an impressive season in 2024/25, with numerous instances where the Spanish international’s goal contributions led to petitions for him to take over Lewandowski’s role as the top choice.
In the next outing, however, the ex-Manchester City player will remain in a supporting role to his more prominent teammate.
Dani Olmo is also viewed as a substitute for Lewandowski when needed.
Olmo is undoubtedly an attacking midfielder, yet his attributes enable the 27-year-old to effectively perform in a ‘false 9’ position.
If Lewandowski is injured, tired, or just not performing well, either Ferran or Olmo will be prepared to take his place.
As Barcelona look ahead to defending their La Liga crown and aiming for success in Europe, the forward line will again be one of the most scrutinized departments at the club. Central to this is Robert Lewandowski, the experienced Polish striker who has led the line since arriving from Bayern Munich in 2022. Though Lewandowski remains the clear first-choice number nine under the current setup, there is growing recognition behind the scenes at Camp Nou that fresh legs and tactical flexibility are needed to support him throughout the demanding season ahead.
Ferran Torres, having silenced many critics during the 2024/25 campaign, has played a pivotal role in keeping Barcelona’s attack sharp and dangerous. Despite often being deployed on the wings, the 24-year-old’s intelligent movement, improved finishing, and sharp instincts inside the box have made him a natural alternative when Lewandowski is unavailable or rotated. Torres scored several crucial goals in both domestic and European fixtures, showcasing a more composed and confident version of himself. It was this rise in form that sparked conversations among fans and pundits alike, with some even suggesting he should be elevated to first-choice striker. However, the coaching staff remains firm in their strategy: Ferran will be a key supporting figure, offering depth and versatility rather than replacing Lewandowski outright.
Dani Olmo, meanwhile, presents a different kind of option. Though not a traditional striker, Olmo’s tactical intelligence, close control, and ability to find space between the lines make him well-suited to the false nine role when Barcelona seeks a more fluid attacking approach. His adaptability is particularly useful in high-stakes matches where positional interchange and unpredictability are crucial. The former RB Leipzig star has matured into a more rounded attacker and could thrive in a central role, especially in games that demand creativity and technical brilliance over sheer physicality.
The decision to rely on Torres and Olmo as Lewandowski’s backups is also a strategic move in terms of financial management. With Barcelona’s budget constraints still in play due to Financial Fair Play regulations, splashing out on a high-profile striker this summer would be a luxury the club can’t easily afford. Instead, the coaching and management team is placing its trust in existing talent, banking on internal growth and tactical nuance to keep the goals coming.
This dual approach—one more direct and pacey in Ferran, the other more creative and fluid in Olmo—gives Barcelona valuable options across different styles of play. Whether it’s breaking down a low block with quick transitions or keeping possession in tight spaces against elite European sides, the flexibility provided by these two players ensures that the Blaugrana won’t be overly reliant on Lewandowski’s form or fitness.
As the 2025/26 season approaches, Barcelona fans will be keen to see how this attacking trio is rotated and utilized. One thing is clear: while Lewandowski remains the focal point, the emergence of Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo as credible support acts adds an extra layer of dynamism to an already potent frontline.