Robert Lewandowski confronted by 20-year-old Barcelona star over lack of intensity on the pitch against Atletico Madrid: Reports

Barcelona stars Gavi and Robert Lewandowski reportedly had differences over a lack of intensity during their LaLiga game against Atletico Madrid on Saturday, December 21. La Blaugrana suffered a 2-1 defeat, which was their first home loss against Los Colchoneros for the first time in 18 years.

Despite being only 20, Spain international and La Masia graduate Gavi is regarded as one of the leaders at Barcelona over his unwillingness to let standards drop. His leadership attributes came to the fore once again in the first half of the game against Atletico Madrid, as he clashed with the Pole.

From the 35th minute, Gavi was signalling the veteran Polish striker to press higher instead of dropping deeper, which gave Clement Lenglet time to bring the ball out, as per SPORT (via Barca Universal). The defender acted almost as an additional midfielder, putting Barcelona's pressing structure and high defensive line under strain.

Gavi was having none of it, and he repeatedly gestured to Lewandowski, who at 36, is 16 years his senior, to lead the press better. As the whistle went for half-time, the midfielder approached the former Bayern Munich man before also complaining about the striker to Pedri, the aforementioned report claims.

Barcelona are aware of Gavi's leadership qualities. He became the second-youngest player to captain the club, doing so against Sevilla in October. The midfielder missed out on most of the 2023-24 season through an ACL injury, leading many established pros, including Lewandowski, to point out that his absence was damaging to the team. He reportedly shares a great relationship with the Polish striker.

Gavi has played 13 times this season as Hansi Flick continues to ease him back to his best. The Atletico Madrid game was only his third league start since his return and he has yet to complete 90 minutes after gaining match fitness.

Barcelona planning future without Lewandowski - Reports

Barcelona are reportedly planning a future without striker Robert Lewandowski. Diario Sport has claimed that the mood at the club has changed, with the striker no longer considered untouchable.

The prolific Pole has scored 16 goals in 18 LaLiga appearances this season, impressive numbers for a player of his age. The 36-year-old has, however, failed to find the net in each of his last three games across competitions, leading to concern from the club.

La Blaugrana are considering letting the Polish striker leave and sign a younger striker to replace him. Erling Haaland, Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko had been linked with the club as Lewandowski's replacement in late September.