'He deserves a big farewell': Flick reacts to Lewandowski's Barcelona exit
Barcelona, May 16
FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick paid an emotional tribute to departing striker Robert Lewandowski and said the Polish star 'deserves a big farewell' after confirming he will leave the club at the end of the season.
Speaking ahead of Barcelona's La Liga clash against Real Betis, Flick revealed that Lewandowski had already informed the squad about his decision and said it had been a privilege to coach the veteran striker.
"Lewandowski spoke to the squad and said his goodbyes. It's been a great chapter for him, and he made that very clear. For me, it's been a privilege to work with him because he's a true professional," Flick said during the pre-match press conference.
The German coach praised Lewandowski's mentality, professionalism, and influence on younger players, calling him a role model within the squad.
"He's a role model, which is why he's still performing at this level. Now he wants a new challenge, and we respect that. He's a great person, a great player, and a fantastic example for the younger players," he added.
Flick also confirmed that Lewandowski will start in Sunday's game against Betis, which will also be his final appearance in front of the Barcelona fans at Camp Nou.
"At Camp Nou, in front of our fans, he deserves a great farewell," Flick said.
The Barcelona coach admitted that replacing Lewandowski's goals and leadership will be a major challenge for the club moving forward.
"He's scored so many goals for us. We'll miss him a lot. Now it's up to us to find a way to replace him in the future," he said.
Lewandowski announced earlier on Saturday that he will leave Barcelona after four successful seasons in which he won three La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and three Spanish Super Cups. Across all competitions, he scored 33 goals in 46 matches and claimed the Pichichi Trophy as the league's top scorer with 23 goals.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Flick's words show real class. It's not easy for a coach to lose a talisman like this, especially mid-season. But I think Barca is making a mistake letting him go for free. They should have planned better, like how we discuss succession planning in our Indian family businesses. Lewandowski will leave a void that's hard to fill. 😢
As a lifelong Barca fan from Mumbai, this hurts. Lewandowski gave us so many memorable moments—his hat-trick against Valencia, the Pichichi title... He's been like a second father to the young players. Hope he goes to a club where he can still challenge for UCL. But Barca better have a proper replacement lined up, yaar. 🤔
It's impressive how Lewandowski maintained his level at Barca. Four seasons, three La Ligas—that's a legacy. But I wonder if his ego is playing a role here? He wants one last big contract, probably to Saudi or MLS. Flick is being diplomatic, but it's clear Barca need to rebuild without him. Smart move from the club's perspective, honestly.
Look, I respect Lewandowski as a player—world class, no doubt. But Barca's mismanagement is showing again. They let Messi go in disgrace, now their top scorer is leaving for free? Feels like our Indian railways booking system—always chaotic. Hope the board learns from this. Flick is a good coach, but without proper support, even he can't fix this. 😤
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