Robert Lewandowski’s Barcelona Saga: A Cautionary Tale of Wishes and Realit

The lesson from this story? Be careful what you wish for.

When Robert Lewandowski made the move from Bayern Munich to FC Barcelona in the summer of 2022, he was hailed as the world’s best striker. The Bavarians secured a lucrative deal for the player in his early thirties, receiving €45m upfront with an additional €5m tied to goal-based bonuses. However, that extra €5m seems like a distant hope now, with Lewandowski struggling to recapture his former glory at Barca.

Having played 13 games in La Liga and the Champions League, the Polish striker has only managed to score 6 goals and provide 4 assists. His last goal dates back to September against Celta Vigo, and in the six subsequent games, he failed to contribute a goal. The extent of Lewandowski’s struggles remains unclear, attributed to an ankle injury last month or the absence of a playmaker like Thomas Müller in Barcelona.

Criticism is directed at coach Xavi for not unlocking the team’s attacking potential. Regardless, it’s evident that Lewandowski enjoyed a better situation at Bayern Munich, a fact he may now recognize.

The inevitable links to MLS suggest a career in decline. Meanwhile, Bayern has moved on, welcoming a new superstar striker, Harry Kane, who is poised to surpass Lewandowski’s records. With 19 goals in 15 games this season, Kane seems to be adapting seamlessly to his new surroundings and system.

While Bayern Munich doesn’t feel the absence of Lewandowski, he may soon realize (if he hasn’t already) that he misses the club. Perhaps the realization occurred last season when Bayern relegated his team to the Europa League. The shock of losing his scoring prowess might make him acknowledge what Leon Goretzka stated last year: “Lewandowski was spoiled at Bayern Munich.”

Lewandowski’s decline may impact the full €50m transfer fee his former club could have received, but it remains a profitable transaction. Bayern wisely reinvested the funds, and although not perfect, the situation could have been far worse.