While Barcelona’s relatively impressive start to the season had led to speculation over the future of Robert Lewandowski, the tables have turned a bit in the past few weeks.
Barça’s recent set of performances have laid bare the club’s lack of chance-taking ability in the final third, with the team desperately missing the presence of a poacher like Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish veteran has been struggling with an injury in recent weeks, but has returned to play bit part roles in the last two matches. And with his contract expiring at the end of the season, his future has come into focus.
According to Catalunya Radio (h/t FCB World), Lewandowski remains a highly respected figure inside the Barcelona dressing room.
In fact, the club even appear willing to renew the contract of the former Borussia Dortmund striker, who will turn 38 by next summer.
Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona superstar
Lewandowski has had a frustrating season so far. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
But Barcelona will only consider a renewal if Lewandowski agrees to significantly lower his salary, perhaps to a point where he is no longer one of the club’s top earners.
This is the only way Barça see Lewandowski continuing at the club beyond 2026. Otherwise, the Catalans are ready to offload the Pole as they look to scour the market for a long-term replacement.
Lewandowski does still have admirers within the club, though, with president Joan Laporta, in particular, being a huge supporter of the veteran attacker.
Whether or not this will play a part in helping him secure another season in Catalonia remains debatable. A lot may depend on how he fares during the second half of the season.
Lewandowski has otherwise had a pretty frustrating season, with the forward scoring just four goals in 11 matches, having started most games on the bench.
Ansu Fati of AS Monaco and FC Barcelona
Ansu Fati of AS Monaco and FC Barcelona