Barcelona are reportedly preparing to let veteran striker Robert Lewandowski leave the club once his contract expires, as the Catalan side has no plans to extend his current deal beyond June 2026.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, the club’s hierarchy has agreed internally that Lewandowski’s time at Camp Nou will end naturally when his existing contract runs out. This means the Polish striker, who will be 37 by then, could depart on a free transfer after four years of service with the Blaugrana.
Sources close to the club reveal that while Barcelona deeply appreciates Lewandowski’s professionalism and goalscoring contributions, there is a growing belief within the board that the team must transition towards a younger attacking core for the next generation of their project under Hansi Flick.
Lewandowski’s record and current form
Since his arrival from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022, Lewandowski has been one of Barcelona’s most consistent performers, netting over 100 goals in all competitions. His tally currently stands at 105 goals in 156 appearances, including four goals in seven La Liga matches so far this season.
He played a pivotal role in guiding Barcelona to the La Liga title during the 2022/2023 season and also contributed heavily in their Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup triumphs. However, club sources claim that his pressing intensity and physical sharpness have declined slightly in recent months — a factor influencing the club’s long-term sporting vision.
In addition to sporting reasons, financial limitations have reportedly weighed on the decision. Barcelona is preparing for a major salary cap reduction ahead of the 2025/26 season, which has forced sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick to prioritize budget-friendly, long-term signings over contract renewals for high-earning veterans.
Barca’s future plans and transfer strategy
The management reportedly views this as the perfect time to start integrating younger attackers who can carry the club into the future. Potential targets mentioned include Julian Alvarez of Manchester City, Erling Haaland, and Marcus Rashford, all of whom fit Barcelona’s desire for energetic and versatile forwards capable of leading a high-pressing system.
Meanwhile, Lewandowski has rotated in recent matches with Ferran Torres, as Flick experiments with attacking combinations. Despite reduced playing time, the Polish captain’s leadership remains highly valued in the dressing room, where he serves as a mentor to rising stars like Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Deco commented on the ongoing speculation: “We’re not discussing renewals in October. Robert has been one of the best strikers in world football for the past decade, and he’s helped us tremendously. But our focus now is on stability, not extensions.”
What lies ahead for Lewandowski
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his club future, Lewandowski remains committed to Barcelona’s objectives this season. He continues to deliver when called upon and is expected to play a leading role in their La Liga and Champions League campaigns.
Looking beyond club football, the 36-year-old is also set to captain Poland at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Insiders suggest that his decision on the next phase of his career — whether a move to Major League Soccer, Saudi Arabia, or a return to Poland — will likely come after the tournament.
For now, Barcelona fans will continue to celebrate the contributions of one of football’s most decorated forwards, even as the club prepares for life beyond the Lewandowski era.