Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Hasan Salihamidzic have publicly defended Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski amid criticism from Dietmar Hamann.
Robert Lewandowski was at his best for Bayern Munich against FC Schalke on Saturday. The Polish striker scored a goal and created another for Serge Gnabry, after forcing an own goal from defender Jeffrey Bruma. His contributions eventually helped the hosts get back to winning ways in the Bundesliga after tasting defeat against Bayer Leverkusen the previous weekend.
Lewandowski was the subject of some heavy criticism from Dietmar Hamann after the defeat against Leverkusen last weekend. The former Germany international insisted Lewandowski is on a steady decline and looks sluggish on the pitch. Speaking to the media (via Goal) after the Schalke match, Hasan Salihamidzic slammed Hamann for criticizing Lewandowski and insisted that the Pole is an important player for Bayern Munich.
"“What Hamann is doing is campaigning against Lewandowski because he can not watch the games properly.“I do not think Robert Lewandowski is a problem for Bayern Munich, Didi Hamann is a problem for Sky.”"
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Karl-Heinz Rummenigge also blasted Hamann after the game against Schalke, a clear sign that the relationship between the player and the club is on the mends. Lewandowski has previously bemoaned the apparent lack of protection Bayern gave him when he fell under heavy criticism last season. His form took a hit — especially in the big games — as speculation about his future became rampant.
The 30-year-old striker wanted to leave the club in the summer, but Bayern were did not sanction his departure. Lewandowski eventually gave up, but he reportedly wanted talks with the club to seek assurances about his situation in Munich. It seems all has been settled, however, as Lewandowski says he now feels completely settled at the club.
Lewandowski has been in fine form for Bayern this season. Hamann’s criticism was pretty strange, considering the Polish striker has scored 25 goals in all competitions so far. His overall game has also improved, and he has added 11 assist to his already impressive goal-scoring tally. A bit of clarity as to his future at the club has done wonders for him, as he is well on course for 40 goals this campaign.
Bayern will need Lewandowski in his best form, as the tougher games are approaching in all competitions. The Pole was disappointing against Real Madrid in last season’s Champions League semifinals. This time around they face a stern test in the form of Liverpool in the round of 16. Niko Kovac will be hoping that his number nine keeps up his form when they travel to Anfield next week.