“I Could Give an Oscar on That!” – 1998 WC Legend Trolls Robert Lewandowski for Acting Up After Substitution

Robert Lewandowski is going through the wringer. The Polish striker continues to be a subject of criticism for his lacklustre performance lately. But now it seems the negative limelight won’t easily leave the former Bayern Munich star. On this note, a 1998 World Cup winner has taken a dig at Lewandowski, claiming he ‘didn’t buy’ his acting skills from the bench.

The shocking claim comes after Barcelona played their first game of 2024 last night against Las Palmas. While Xavi’s side managed to clinch a 1-2 win away from home, the focus was on Lewandowski, who not only fired blank but also made an interesting gesture, which many found hilarious. After getting replaced by Joao Felix in the 72nd minute, the striker was on the bench. Interestingly, new signing Victor Roque also came onto the field minutes later. 

While playing, the youngster missed a brilliant chance to score a goal on his debut. Seeing this, Lewandowski quickly stood up and expressed his regret while promptly applauding the Brazilian. This gesture didn’t settle well with the ESPN panel, as Dan Thomas and Ale Moreno mocked the Polish striker. 

Interestingly, Frank Leboeuf also jumped on the bandwagon and said, “I have to say very good acting. I could give an Oscar on that, especially when you feel that inside the guy is so angry at himself and maybe at the substitution and he gets up and smiles, ‘Oh my god, oh well done, boy.’ No, no, we didn’t buy it, mister.” 

Perhaps, Leboeuf believes Lewandowski’s applause was fake or sarcastic. Either way, it is quite a bold claim, which would certainly bring discontent to the striker. However, for now, the player must worry about his goalless form.

Robert Lewandowski is still trying to find the net

After Las Palmas took the lead, it was Ferran Torres who gave relief to Barcelona. Likewise, Ilkay Gundogan’s penalty in injury time helped the Catalans clinch three points, with Lewandowski failing to find the net yet again. In 22 appearances across various competitions, the 35-year-old attacker has only scored nine goals.

READ MORE: Pedri Wants Erling Haaland to Choose Barcelona Over Real Madrid

This decline in performance has raised rumours that Lewandowski may leave Barcelona. Furthermore, with the presence of Vitor Roque, the Polish star might lose his starting spot, with Torres, Felix, and Raphinha backing up the youngster. Be that as it may, time is of the essence for Lewandowski, who must pull up his socks. Otherwise, it’s all downhill for the striker.

WATCH THIS STORY: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Make a Huge Assist for Esports Space