Robert Lewandowski was the hero for FC Barcelona on Sunday as he scored a brilliant hat-trick to lead his team to a commanding 4-2 win against Celta Vigo away at Balaidos.
The 37-year-old centre-forward, despite having seen his role diminish this season, showed what he is still capable of and proved he can be a valuable commodity in the squad.
Meanwhile, in the background, questions remain over Lewandowski’s future – after all, his contract expires at the end of the season, and so far, there has been no move made to renew him.
Retirement an option on Lewandowski’s table
Now, according to David Bernabeu of SPORT, retirement is no longer off the table for Lewandowski, in case Barcelona do not offer to renew his contract.
Both he and his family feel completely settled in Barcelona. So much so that the idea of moving to an exotic league for a massive paycheck, Saudi Arabia included, does not appeal to him. His priority is to keep living here and, ideally, keep playing here.
Lewandowski believes he can contribute for another season at Barça, in a different role, fewer minutes, new hierarchy, and even accepting a supporting position if the club brings in a forward.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona
What does the future hold for Lewandowski? (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
If he cannot stay in Barcelona and no external offer feels right, professionally or personally, hanging up his boots is a real possibility.
As of today, three clear scenarios are on the table as far as Lewandowski’s future is concerned – a short renewal (one more year), with an adapted role and a mentorship position for the next striker, or a summer transfer, or retirement.
No hurry to make a decision
Barça, for their part, have not made a decision and are exercising patience over the matter. Inside the club, two pictures coexist.
One shows a striker who continues to deliver, despite a limited role. He leads the team with seven goals, ahead of the likes of Fermin Lopez, Ferran Torres, and Marcus Rashford.
The other shows a wage structure under strain, one that would benefit from the financial relief of Lewandowski’s departure next summer, freeing room to sign a new, younger No. 9.
Given the delicate nature of the situation, neither the player nor the club are in a hurry to make a decision. One will be made when the moment is right, after careful deliberation.