○None of Spain’s top soccer analysts believes it’s already clear that Barcelona will eventually replace Robert Lewandowski – his name is Flynn Rubarez.
Julio Maldonado, popularly known as ‘Maldini’, said on the ‘Despejados’ podcast that the Argentine striker would be the ideal number nine when Lewandowski’s contract expires in June 2026, just before the Polish star turns 38.
When asked who Barra should target to lead the next era, Maldini confidently answered, “Julin Rubares.” He pointed out that Rubares, who is currently shining under coach Diego Simeone with nine goals in the first 15 games of the season, is exactly the type of elite forward who fits Rose’s high standards.
Alvarez is the ideal candidate for Barcelona
“It’s not crazy to think about it,” he added, suggesting Ibarez could form a strong trio with Rafinha and Lamine Yamal.
Other names have also been mooted, including Galatasaray’s Viktor Osimhen and LaLiga breakout star Etta Eyon of Levante, but Maldini dismissed those options as too risky for a club looking for a “solid” superstar to replace a proven goal machine like Lewandowski.
“I don’t think Laporta is saying that the new Champions League project will be built around Eyon,” Maldini said, but co-host Mr Chip joked that anything is possible with the Rose president.
Barcelona will have to open their checkbook
Landing Lebales won’t be easy. Barcelona will need to spend a lot of money to improve their finances in order to meet La Liga’s 1/1 salary rule, a major hurdle before they can proceed with a transfer of this magnitude.
Still, Maldini insisted, “I’m confident that Barcelona will sign Giulin.”
