Lamine Yamal and Pedri, two of Barcelona’s standout players, both agree that the team needs to strengthen its attack with a top-class number 9 next season. Despite Robert Lewandowski’s solid statistics, his performances have raised concerns among both the coaching staff and teammates. At 36, Lewandowski has lost some of his vitality and no longer provides the same pressing intensity or link-up play that Barcelona’s style demands.
According to “El Nacional,” key players like Yamal and Pedri believe Barcelona needs a forward with greater mobility, someone who can better integrate into the team’s dynamics and take advantage of the chances created from the wings and midfield. Both players feel that in order for Barcelona to compete at the highest level across all competitions, strengthening the forward line with a reliable number 9 is a priority.
Barcelona is already addressing this need in the transfer market, with sporting director Deco reportedly considering players that are widely supported by both management and the dressing room. One such target is Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish striker from Sporting Lisbon, who has been in excellent form in the Portuguese league. Gyökeres’ physicality and goal-scoring ability fit Barcelona’s requirements, but signing him will be challenging due to strong competition and his hefty release clause.
To make room for a new striker, Barcelona may need to offload players like Ansu Fati or Ferran Torres. The message from the dressing room is clear: if Barcelona aims to reclaim its place at the top of European football, securing an elite striker is essential to complement the emerging talents of Yamal and Pedri, who are expected to lead the team in the years to come.
