Lewandowski’s Golden Boot Hopes Fade After Villarreal Defeat

FC Barcelona lost 2–3 to Villarreal despite already securing the LaLiga title. Robert Lewandowski failed to score and was substituted, leaving him at 25 goals, while Kylian Mbappé reached 29. With one match left, Lewandowski’s Golden Boot chances are nearly gone. Ter Stegen also faced criticism after conceding three goals.

When the LaLiga champions FC Barcelona faced Villarreal at Montjuïc, what was supposed to be a routine match turned into a bitter disappointment. Barça lost 2–3 in a tightly contested encounter, but the biggest blow was suffered by striker Robert Lewandowski. Hansi Flick started the Polish forward in hopes of boosting his Pichichi chances, but Lewandowski failed to score and was later substituted.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé netted another goal at the Pizjuán, extending his tally to 29 goals, while Lewandowski remains stuck at 25 with just one matchday left — making it nearly impossible for him to catch up. Inside the Barça locker room, the sentiment is one of resignation, as players reportedly acknowledged that Lewandowski's Golden Boot hopes are over.

Adding to the club’s worries, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen also came under criticism after conceding three goals with minimal resistance, raising doubts about his future role. Despite clinching the title, this defeat has triggered reflection within the squad. Barça now close their season against Athletic Club at San Mamés, but the focus has shifted from celebration to questions about the team’s depth, form, and plans for the upcoming season — especially for key figures like Lewandowski and Ter Stegen.