Barcelona edge Bilbao 2-1, Lewandowski shines with crucial winner

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick lauded striker Robert Lewandowski after the Polish forward scored the decisive goal in a 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao in La Liga on Saturday. This marked Lewandowski's third goal in two matches, following his brace in Barcelona’s 2-1 comeback win against Valencia the previous weekend.

"I know Robert well, and I don't think he's returning to form — this is how I’ve always seen him as a player," Flick told DAZN. Under Flick’s management at Bayern Munich, Lewandowski netted 83 goals in 71 matches during the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons, winning several major titles, including the 2020 Champions League.

Flick expressed his satisfaction with Lewandowski’s all-round contribution, highlighting his work ethic and pressing ability. "It’s not just his goals; it’s his collective effort. He presses high and effectively, and physically, he's in peak condition. He knows how to handle pressure, as we saw after the equaliser. He's a fantastic player."

Flick also praised Brazilian winger Raphinha, who impressed once again in an attacking midfield role. "Rafa can play in any attacking position — either as a number 10 or switching roles. His pressing is excellent, and we needed that with some players still missing."

Barcelona have been coping with the absence of key players, including Gavi, Ronald Araujo, and Frenkie de Jong, due to injury, while new signing Dani Olmo has yet to be registered due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions.

"I’m very happy with these two wins against tough opponents, especially considering the circumstances," Flick added. "We have injuries and other challenges, but we’re managing well defensively."