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Xavi responds to critics over Lewandowski’s Barcelona performance

Robert Lewandowski at Barcelona
© Ace Football
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Lewandowski keeps doing what he does best – putting the ball in the back of the net. But does he do enough to help his team out in other areas? Xavi weighs in with his thoughts.

FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has defended star striker Robert Lewandowski against recent criticism.

Despite a somewhat low-key start to the season by his high standards, Lewandowski has two goals in four LaLiga games. The Pole won and converted the penalty to secure Sunday’s 2-1 victory against Osasuna. He also scored the winner during the previous week’s 4-3 victory at Villarreal.

Yet, Lewandowski’s overall contributions to the team’s play and positioning have led some to criticize him.

“We’re too demanding with him,” Xavi said in response to the No. 9’s critics following the Osasuna triumph.

Xavi went on to point out that Lewandowski has given the team four points in the last two games and has been decisive when it mattered most.

“We can’t say he’s in a bad moment, he played very well today. I’m happy with him today, he works hard and he’s Lewandowski, he’s our goalscorer,” the manager added.

With three wins and one draw in four games, Barcelona sit third in the LaLiga table, two points behind leaders Real Madrid.

The Blaugrana will return to action on September 16 for a home game against Real Betis in LaLiga.

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