Robert Lewandowski has revealed that he never wanted to play for another European club after leaving Barcelona, saying his time at the Spanish giants marked the end of his journey in European football.
Speaking after completing his move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, the Polish striker explained that once he decided to leave Barcelona, he knew he needed a completely different challenge rather than joining another club on the continent.
“After deciding that my time at Barcelona had come to an end, I didn’t want to stay in Europe because, after Barça, I didn’t want to play for any other club,” Lewandowski said. “It was a difficult decision for me and my family to leave Europe, but I couldn’t imagine myself at any European club other than Barça.”
The 37-year-old admitted that relocating to the United States was not an easy choice, but believes it was the right step for both his career and his family.
He added that he is excited about the new chapter and is eager to help Chicago Fire compete at a high level in Major League Soccer.
Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022 after establishing himself as one of Europe’s greatest strikers.
During his time in Catalonia, he won multiple major trophies, including three La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey and several Spanish Super Cups.
He also surpassed the 100-goal mark for the club, cementing his place among Barcelona’s modern-day greats.
Before moving to Spain, the Polish international enjoyed a remarkable spell at Bayern Munich, where he won eight Bundesliga titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League in 2020.
He also played a key role in Borussia Dortmund’s Bundesliga triumphs before making the switch to Bavaria.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, Lewandowski has scored more than 700 senior career goals for club and country.
His move to the United States brings an end to an illustrious European career, but he believes he still has plenty to offer as he begins a fresh challenge in the MLS.
