Robert Lewandowski has announced his departure from Barcelona in a potential boost to Marcus Rashford’s chances of getting his dream move. Lewandowski, 37, will leave Barca after four trophy-laden years when his contract expires in June.
The Poland captain, who’s yet to decide on his next club but intends to continue playing, starred alongside Rashford this season as Barcelona successfully defended the La Liga title. On loan from Manchester United, Barca have the option to sign Rashford permanently for £26million when the summer transfer window opens.
The Englishman has scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists during his spell at the Camp Nou, where he’s predominantly played as a left winger. Although Barcelona intend to sign a new striker this summer, Rashford has proved that he can help fill the goalscoring void which Lewandowski will leave behind, and he can play through the middle if required.
Hansi Flick’s side are interested in Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez while Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic has also been linked. Lewandowski confirmed the news of his departure in an Instagram post on Saturday and will say farewell during Sunday’s final home game of the season against Real Betis.
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Speaking over a montage of his time at Barca, the 37-year-old said: “After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on. I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. Four seasons, three championships.
“I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth. Thank you to everyone I met along the way during these beautiful four years.
“A special thank you to President (Joan) Laporta for giving me the chance to live the most incredible chapter of my career. Barca is back where it belongs.”
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Spearheading the post-Lionel Messi era alongside the likes of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, Lewandowski joined Barca in July 2022 from Bayern Munich in a deal worth up to €50m (£43m). The veteran has scored 119 goals in 191 appearances for the Spanish giants, winning seven domestic trophies under both Flick and Xavi Hernandez, including three La Liga titles.
Currently, Lewandowski has a lucrative offer on the table from MLS club Chicago Fire. Multiple Saudi Arabian teams including Al-Hilal have also registered their interest, as have Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan.
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His departure leaves Ferran Torres as Barcelona’s only recognised striker ahead of the 2026-27 season. Although Barca have explored extending his loan, Rashford is desperate for a permanent move and remarked after scoring in their 2-0 win against Real Madrid: “I am not a magician, but if I was, I would stay.”
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