Key Takeaways:
- Barcelona manager Hansi Flick refused to discuss Robert Lewandowski’s contract situation before facing RCD Mallorca on Saturday
- Flick highlighted Barcelona’s recent attacking wastefulness and stressed the need for focus in front of goal
- Barcelona retain a right of first refusal and 40% sell-on clause for Jan Virgili, who will face his former club for Mallorca this weekend
Barcelona’s Profligacy in Front of Goal Comes Under Scrutiny
Barcelona’s inability to capitalise on their dominance in recent matches has become a talking point as they prepare to host RCD Mallorca on Saturday. Hansi Flick, while voicing satisfaction with the team’s overall level of play, acknowledged concerns over missed opportunities in front of goal and the need to remain alert against Mallorca’s in-form striker, Vedat Muriqi.
“I’m very happy with how we’re playing football. Of course, we need to be more focused in front of goal, but the team is on the right track. Against Mallorca, we have to be careful with Muriqi, who’s having a great season.”
🚨 Hansi Flick: "Lewandowski has to finish this season well… I don't know what will happen in the future."
"What I can say is that he's doing well and I hope he's enjoying his current situation." pic.twitter.com/csuubQRgRT
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) February 6, 2026
Lewandowski’s Future Remains Uncertain
Speculation continues to surround Robert Lewandowski, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. Despite reports indicating Barcelona could pursue a contract extension for the 37-year-old, it remains unclear whether the club will aim to keep or replace him. Flick was asked if he had addressed Lewandowski’s reduced role and potential future with the Polish striker.
“Of course we’ve talked about this situation, but it’s not the end of the season. It’s not the time to talk about it. I don’t know what will happen. I know he wants to play a bit more, get more minutes; he’s in good form. I also have to say he loves playing for Barca, I don’t know what will happen at the end of the season. We don’t know what will happen with the club. We’ll find out in the future.”
Director of Football and Presidential Election Implications
Barcelona’s internal dynamics were also discussed following a statement from presidential candidate Victor Font, who declared he would not retain Director of Football Deco if elected in March, though he would keep Flick as manager. Flick spoke positively about his working relationship with Deco:
“Right now I’m very happy working with Deco, we share a philosophy. We know what we have to do, I appreciate it a lot.”
Spotlight on Ronald Araujo and Defensive Adaptation
Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo, who recently returned to the starting lineup after a period of absence in December, has drawn attention amid previous transfer rumours. Flick praised Araujo’s physical and leadership qualities while stressing the need for gradual adaptation to Barcelona’s playing philosophy:
“He has a top physique, unlike the rest of the players. He’s very fast, one of the captains, one of the leaders. He has to keep going like this, take it step by step. Our playing philosophy isn’t easy because for his style of play, but he’s growing, and we have to help him adapt more to our philosophy.”
Jan Virgili’s Progress at Mallorca and Possible Barcelona Interest
The weekend fixture will see 19-year-old Jan Virgili, who left Barcelona’s La Masia academy for RCD Mallorca in the summer for €3.5m, line up against his former club. Virgili’s performances have not gone unnoticed, and Barcelona maintain significant future options on the winger.
“What I can say is what I see, which is that he’s doing a great job at Mallorca. I’m very happy for him.”
Barcelona hold a right of first refusal as well as a 40% sell-on clause linked to Virgili’s contract, potentially influencing future transfer activity.
