The rise of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi redefined
goal-scoring, pushing the boundaries of what was achievable from wide
positions. These extraordinary talents overshadowed the need for a genuine
centre-forward, leading many to believe that the days of the classic number 9
were over. However, in recent years, a new wave of strikers has emerged,
reviving the role with a modern twist.
Among them, Robert Lewandowski stands as the most complete and
prolific embodiment of the number 9—a player who not only redefines the
position but elevates it to new heights.
The False 9 Era: A
Tactical Necessity
The dominance of the false 9 system in the past decade was
not without precedent. It harkened back to the tactical genius of the
Magnificent Magyars, who deployed Nándor Hidegkuti as a deep-lying forward to
dismantle England at Wembley in 1953. Similarly, Brazil’s Tostão operated as a
false 9 during their triumphant 1970 World Cup campaign, creating space for the
likes of Pelé and Jairzinho.
In the modern era, the false 9 re-emerged as a necessity
when players like Messi and Ronaldo began dominating goal-scoring charts. Their
ability to cut inside from wide positions and score with unerring consistency
rendered the traditional striker redundant in many systems. Managers adapted,
deploying midfielders or wingers in central roles to maximize the output of
their star players.
Yet, as football evolves, so does the need for balance. The
resurgence of the genuine number 9 has brought a renewed appreciation for the
role of a clinical, versatile striker.
The Resurgence of the
Number 9
In this new age, strikers like Karim Benzema, Jamie Vardy,
Ciro Immobile, and Robert Lewandowski have redefined what it means to be a
number 9. These players are not merely poachers; they combine technical
ability, positional intelligence, and adaptability to thrive in systems that
demand more than just goal-scoring.
Among them, Lewandowski has emerged as the paragon of
excellence. The Polish striker’s performances for Bayern Munich and the
national team have solidified his status as the best number 9 in the world
today.
Lewandowski: A
Striker for the Ages
At 31, Robert Lewandowski is enjoying the finest form of his
career. His exploits in front of goal have reached historic levels, showcasing
a blend of clinical finishing, technical brilliance, and tactical
awareness.
One of the most memorable displays of his prowess came in a
Champions League group-stage match against Red Star Belgrade. In just
14 minutes and 31 seconds, Lewandowski scored four goals, a feat that left
spectators and pundits alike in awe. This wasn’t an isolated incident; Lewandowski’s
career is punctuated by moments of brilliance, including his legendary five
goals in nine minutes against Wolfsburg in 2015 and a four-goal masterclass
against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
A Statistical
Marvel
Lewandowski’s numbers are staggering. In 2024, he scored 51
goals in 53 appearances for club and country, including 10 goals in just seven
Champions League matches. His goals-per-minute ratio—averaging a goal every 57
minutes—outshines even the best seasons of Messi and Ronaldo. Messi’s historic
2012-13 La Liga campaign saw him score every 66 minutes, while Ronaldo’s best
in 2013-14 came at 73.6 minutes per goal. Lewandowski has surpassed these
benchmarks with months still left in the season.
Evolution of a
Striker
What sets Lewandowski apart is his ability to adapt and
evolve. As he ages, he has shifted from relying on intricate movements and
close-range finishes to mastering long-range strikes and set-piece headers,
reminiscent of Ronaldo’s transformation in his 30s. His ambidexterity and
aerial prowess make him a nightmare for defenders, as Gerard Piqué aptly noted:
“He can use both feet and he’s good in the air. It’s really tough when you have
to mark a player that can do everything.”
Lewandowski is not just a finisher; he is an all-round
performer. He combines the cool composure of Jamie Vardy, the technical finesse
of Karim Benzema, and the positional intelligence of Ciro Immobile. His ability
to score in a variety of ways—whether through volleys, headers, or long-range
strikes—makes him a unique asset in modern football.
The Best Number
9
In an era where the role of the striker has been redefined,
Robert Lewandowski stands as a beacon of the classic number 9, infused with
modern versatility. His consistency, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of
goals have cemented his place as the best striker in the world today.
As the season progresses, Lewandowski’s current form
suggests that greater feats are yet to come. If his trajectory continues, he
may well be remembered not just as the best of his generation, but as one of
the greatest number 9s in the history of football.
The renaissance of the number 9 is here, and Robert Lewandowski is leading the charge.
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