In the aftermath of Lionel Messi’s departure, Barcelona found themselves in dire need of a new star player. Turning their attention to Robert Lewandowski, the Polish striker became more than just a solution to on-field struggles; he represented a beacon of hope for a disillusioned fanbase. With Lewandowski’s renowned name and star power, Barcelona saw the potential for a significant boost in merchandise sales.
However, despite Lewandowski’s instrumental role in securing the La Liga title for Barcelona shortly after his €45 million transfer, doubts linger about the overall success of the move. While there have been glimpses of vintage brilliance, particularly during the first year, the second year has seen a decline in performance, coinciding with an indifferent title defense.
Throughout the 2023/24 season, tensions and disagreements with both the coach and teammates have marred Lewandowski’s campaign, contributing to a decrease in his productivity. While he remains highly regarded within the Barcelona dressing room, the possibility of a summer sale cannot be discounted.
At 35 years old, Lewandowski must demonstrate his ability to maintain his elite status, although finding suitors at the highest level may prove challenging if Barcelona decides to part ways with him. The coming months will be crucial for the striker as he seeks to prolong his presence at the pinnacle of the sport.
5. Borrusia Dortmund
In 2010, Borussia Dortmund made a bold move by signing a young Robert Lewandowski, who had only showcased his talent in his native Poland. Despite the relatively modest €4.5 million fee, Lewandowski’s arrival would go down as one of the club’s most inspired signings.
Initially, the Polish forward had to bide his time in Germany, but he seized his opportunity during the 2011/12 season, playing a pivotal role as Dortmund clinched the Bundesliga title and reached the Champions League final the following year. His tenure at Signal Iduna Park catapulted his reputation to new heights.
However, Lewandowski’s decision to leave Dortmund on a free transfer and join Bayern Munich soured his relationship with the passionate Yellow Wall supporters. While he maintains fond memories of his time at Dortmund, and despite the potential need for a striker at BVB this summer, a reunion seems improbable.
Though many fans may have softened their stance towards the once-beloved forward, the complexities of the past make a return to Dortmund unlikely, leaving Lewandowski’s legacy at the club etched in history rather than subject to revision.
4. Manchester United
With the emergence of Rasmus Hojlund, Manchester United may have secured their long-term solution at the number nine position, providing INEOS with an exciting young forward to build their team around.
However, United currently lack sufficient cover options in this position. With Anthony Martial set to depart at the end of the season and Marcus Rashford predominantly featuring in wider roles, the Red Devils face a void in their striker department.
In recent years, United have opted for experienced veterans to fill this void, such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Edinson Cavani, and Wout Weghorst, albeit the latter may find it amusing to be mentioned alongside the former two names.
One potential solution could be for United to consider Robert Lewandowski as an experienced backup or competitor for Hojlund. However, such a move seems more aligned with the approach of the previous regime rather than the current astute decision-makers at INEOS.
3. Chelsea
When it comes to attracting big names, Todd Boehly doesn’t shy away, does he? Chelsea seems poised to be drawn to the prospect of signing the 35-year-old Lewandowski this summer, more so than Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s United.
Given the club’s financial resources, the Blues wouldn’t face significant hurdles in terms of transfer fees or wage demands. Additionally, it wouldn’t be surprising if they offer the veteran striker a multi-year contract, aligning with their typical approach.
Nicolas Jackson is not performing well is the reason Chelsea might look to bolster their forward line by targeting top strikers like Victor Osimhen or Robert Lewandowski to potentially replace him.
Both Osimhen and Lewandowski possess proven goal-scoring abilities and could offer Chelsea the attacking prowess they seek. Such a move would likely signal Chelsea’s ambition to maintain their competitiveness at the highest level of football.
2. Al Ahli
The Saudis, known for their penchant for marquee signings, may outshine even Boehly in their pursuit of top talent. Given Lewandowski’s stellar reputation as one of the finest strikers of his generation, he undoubtedly fits the profile of players they’ll target this summer.
Last year, Al Ittihad made headlines by offering a lucrative contract to Karim Benzema, who was 35 at the time, signaling their willingness to invest heavily in established stars. Lewandowski might entertain the idea of securing a similar deal with one of the Saudi-backed PIF clubs. With players like Aleksandar Mitrovic excelling at Al Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo leading the charge at Al Nassr, Al Ahli emerges as a plausible destination.
While Roberto Firmino hasn’t quite lived up to expectations in his debut season with the club, Lewandowski may opt for a different path in his twilight years.
1. MLS
Lewandowski acknowledged last year that he had been seriously considering a move to MLS before the Covid-19 pandemic struck, but he has since had a change of heart. While the 35-year-old striker doesn’t foresee an immediate move to America, circumstances could force his hand if Barcelona opts to sell him this summer.
With the United States set to host the 2024 Copa America and the 2026 World Cup, the allure of MLS, particularly with a potential Lionel Messi-inspired boost, could become increasingly appealing. As MLS franchises continue to grow in financial power, Lewandowski could find himself among several high-profile signings to grace the American soccer scene in the coming years.