Barcelona winger reveals desire to evolve into centre forward – ‘I try to emulate Lewandowski’

Barcelona winger Ferran Torres has been making headlines this season with his impressive performances, particularly in his evolving role as a central striker. 

While every player aspires to be a regular starter, Torres seems to have embraced the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a substitute who can make an immediate impact. 

His five goals this season highlight his growing importance to the team and his ability to deliver in crucial moments.

Returning from injury

Ferran Torres picked up an injury earlier this season. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

This success comes after a challenging period during the autumn, where personal and professional hurdles tested his resilience. 

Despite these difficulties, Torres has managed to close the year on a high note, displaying determination and a strong mentality. 

Known for his relentless approach to the game, the young forward has shown that he’s willing to adapt and grow in order to contribute to Barcelona’s success.

“They were very hard moments because I was in Barcelona and I felt helpless for not being able to go to Valencia to help in any way I could. I tried to help from a distance, but I had a hard time not being able to be there,” he told SPORT.

Hansi Flick’s approach

Ferran Torres has evolved under Flick. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Torres has found a renewed sense of confidence. Flick’s coaching style, which combines a focus on vertical attacking play and possession-based football, has allowed players like Torres to thrive. 

Speaking of the manager, Torres said that the German places significant emphasis on fostering a supportive dressing room atmosphere, ensuring that every player feels valued, even those who may not be getting regular minutes on the pitch. 

“Flick is very close, but when he has to press, he presses. We players like it that way. 

“He also gives a lot of importance to people who are not getting as many minutes as they would like. He takes great care of the dressing room and tries to push everyone to keep working.”

He explained that Flick likes to play direct, meaning that he wants his players to spend more time in the opposition area.

“He likes direct Football but he also likes to have the ball. He gives priority to being in the opponent’s half as long as possible and we are adapting very well because we have players who can control the ball but also play vertically.”

The evolving role

Ferran Torres likes to play as a centre-forward. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The shift to the ‘9’ role has been a revelation for Torres. He has openly embraced the challenge of learning and excelling in this position, seeing it as an opportunity rather than a limitation. 

“I think that the more positions you can play in, the better, but it is true that I feel very comfortable as a ‘9’ and that’s where things are going better. In the future, I see myself more and more as a centre forward.”

By closely observing and learning from Robert Lewandowski, Torres is refining his skills and adding new dimensions to his game. His ability to play across multiple positions only enhances his value to the team.

“Flick tells me a lot that I look to Robert (Lewandowski), who in the end is a reference point for the last 15 years. I try to be a sponge, copy him, do what he does and acquire the qualities he has,” he added.

As Barcelona continue to push forward this season, Torres’s versatility and growth as a player are proving to be key assets. With his impressive form and determination, he is well on his way to becoming a pivotal figure in the squad.