Barcelona veteran superstar says he is physically better now than ten years ago

It has not been the best of seasons for Barcelona superstar Robert Lewandowski, but the veteran superstar has turned his fortunes around in recent weeks.

The 35-year-old has been in fine nick of late and that has coincided with a positive run of results for the Blaugrana.

In fact, Lewandowski turned in one of his best performances in Barça colours this past weekend against Atletico Madrid, finishing with a goal and two assists.

Physically in much better shape

Taking advantage of the international break, Lewandowski gave an interview to TV3, during which he admitted that he is much better physically than he was in his prime.

“I am physically better than I was 10 years ago. When I was 25 or 26, I wasn’t at the level I am now, or two years ago,” remarked Lewandowski.

“I train a lot and I feel very good physically. If I feel good, everything is easier.”

Barcelona’s good run of form has come after manager Xavi Hernandez announced his decision to leave the club at the end of the season back in January.

Since then, the Catalans have not lost a game, reclaimed second place in La Liga, and qualified for the quarterfinals of the Champions League.

Lewandowski was reportedly one of the players who had a private chat with Xavi to convince him to reconsider his decision, but to no avail.

Discussing his talk with the manager, the centre-forward said: “We talked about it, but I saw that there is only one option. I don’t want to put any more pressure on him.”

On the impact that it has had on the team, Lewandowski added: “It’s also the team’s responsibility. Now we talk more about what we can do to improve and be more effective.

Regaining his form. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We don’t think about whether Xavi will leave when the season is over. We play with Xavi and we want to win with Xavi.”

Relationship with the younger group

At 35, Lewandowski is the oldest player in the current Barcelona squad and is playing with teammates less than half his age in Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and Hector Fort.

Discussing his relationship with the youngsters in the squad, the superstar forward said: “I have a good relationship with the youngsters. Before training, or on the pitch, I have to explain to them things I see.

“They are very good players, with a lot of quality. But the balance between youth and experience is also important.”

While he may be the most senior player in the squad in terms of age, Lewandowski does not lose sleep over becoming the team captain and is happy to help out in any way he can.

“I know it’s important in the dressing room. I don’t think about it now,” he said.

Lewandowski, who has been surprisingly linked with Atletico Madrid recently, gave an insight into his trademark fist-bump celebration, saying:

“I talked about it with my friends and my daughters at home. There is no big story behind it. I did it once and I liked it. I’ve seen a lot of fans doing the same celebration, and it makes me proud.”