'The mission is complete': Robert Lewandowski confirms Barcelona exit at the end of season
Barcelona, May 16
La Liga champions Barcelona have been dealt a blow as their striker Robert Lewandowski has confirmed his exit at the end of the season when his contract with the Spanish giant expires. The striker is set to depart after winning three La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey, and three Spanish Super Cups with the Catalan giants following his move from Bayern in the summer of 2022.
Lewandowski took on the responsibility of leading the attack soon after his arrival and quickly became the team's main reference point up front. In total, he is leaving the club with 119 goals in 191 appearances, making him the team's 14th-highest goalscorer of all time.
The 37-year-old penned down an emotional message for his fans as he departs after a glorious stay at Camp Nou.
"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. 4 seasons, 3 championships. I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days," Lewandowski wrote in a post on Instagram.
"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 Laporta for giving me the chance to live the most incredible chapter of my career. Barca is back where it belongs," he added.
Barcelona also thanked Lewandowski with a special post on X. "Came as a star. Leaves as legend.Thank you, Robert Lewandowski, for every goal, every battle, and every magic moment wearing these colours. Culer forever," The club wrote.
Born in Warsaw on August 21, 1988, Robert Lewandowski arrived at Barca following a glittering career in European football. He wasted little time proving his worth. In his very first season, he played a key role in Barça winning both La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup in 2022/23. 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
Honestly, his departure was expected. He's 37 now, and Barcelona's financial situation means they need to plan for the future. His 119 goals in 191 appearances is a phenomenal record but look at the bigger picture—they paid €45m for a player in his 30s. That was always a short-term move. Smart to part ways now with mutual respect.
"The mission is complete"—what a classy way to leave. Three La Liga titles, Copa del Rey, and three Spanish Super Cups in four years. That's a trophy every 8 months! Compare that to how some players leave clubs with drama. Barcelona fans in India will miss you, Robert. Catalonia may be 'your place on earth', but you'll always be welcome in our hearts. 🙌
I have mixed feelings. On one hand, his goalscoring record is elite—119 goals is incredible. On the other hand, his performance in big Champions League knockout games was often underwhelming. He needed service, and when the midfield struggled, so did he. Still, for a free transfer signing (he was bought for a fee), he delivered more than expected. Best of luck, Robert!
Watching him play for Barca from my living room in Mumbai was a privilege. That hat-trick against Valencia in 2023 was pure class. But now Barca must look ahead—Vitor Roque needs more minutes, and players like Lamine Yamal are the future. Lewandowski leaves with dignity. That Instagram post gave me chills. 😢
J James A