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Prolific goalscorer Robert Lewandowski will leave Barcelona at the end of the season, the Spanish club announced on Saturday.
The Polish striker, who will turn 38 in August, was expected to be on the move with his contract expiring.
Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern in a 45 million euro ($52 million) transfer in 2022, when his new club was in serious financial trouble and still recovering from the departure of Lionel Messi. Lewandowski was seen as a key player in their rebuilding effort.
He then helped Barcelona win three Spanish league titles in four seasons, including this campaign, and a Copa del Rey, while scoring an impressive 119 goals in 191 appearances.
“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,” Lewandowski wrote on Instagram.
Lewandowski did not say in his message what is next in his career. He has been linked with a move to Juventus or leagues outside Europe.
Lewandowski lost Barcelona coach Hansi Flick’s undisputed striker status this season, as the former Bayern coach often preferred the speed and drive of young Ferran Torres.
Lamine Yamal, who has played on Lewandowski’s right, praised his strike partner.
“Thank you for everything, for your goals, your leadership and for believing in me from day one,” Yamal wrote on Instagram. “I learned a lot from you, on and off the field. You will always be a legend.”
Barcelona has two games left this season. They host Real Betis on Sunday and visit Valencia on May 23.
Information from The Associated Press.
