SPORTS
LEWANDOWSKI TO LEAVE BARCA WITH ‘MISSION COMPLETE’
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has announced that he will leave the club this summer upon the expiration of his contract, bringing an end to a successful four-year spell at the Spanish giants.
The 37-year-old Polish forward confirmed his departure in a post on Instagram on Saturday, saying he was leaving with a sense of fulfilment after helping restore Barcelona to success.
“After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on,” Lewandowski wrote.
“I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. Four seasons, three championships.”
Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern Munich in 2022 during a difficult financial period for the club and went on to play a key role in their revival.
The striker scored 119 goals in 191 appearances across all competitions and helped the Catalan side win three La Liga titles, including the 2025/26 league crown, as well as the 2025 Copa del Rey.
“Barca is back where it belongs,” Lewandowski added.
“I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth.”
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed that Lewandowski would make his final appearance at Camp Nou on Sunday against Real Betis.
“He spoke with the team, said goodbye, and said that it was a great time for him here in Barcelona,” Flick said.
The German coach, who also worked with Lewandowski at Bayern Munich, praised the veteran striker for his professionalism and leadership.
“I’ve worked with Robert now for years, and we have won together nine trophies. For me, it’s a privilege to work with him,” Flick stated.
“He’s a professional player… every day he gave the best with his body to be at the highest level. He’s a perfect role model for young players.”
Barcelona also paid tribute to the forward on social media, describing him as a club legend.
“Thank you, Robert Lewandowski, for every goal, every fight, and every magical moment wearing these colours,” the club said. “He arrived as a star, he leaves as a legend.”
Lewandowski finished as La Liga’s top scorer in his debut season under former coach Xavi Hernandez.
This season, he shared attacking duties with Spain international Ferran Torres under Flick, scoring 18 goals in 44 matches.
Although the veteran striker did not reveal his next destination, he has been linked with moves to clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board