While Raphinha stole the headlines on the pitch with a brilliant brace in Barcelona’s 3-1 victory over Real Betis, the emotional centre of attention at Spotify Camp Nou was always going to be Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish striker played his final home game for Barcelona and received a farewell that perfectly reflected the respect and admiration he built during his time at the club.
From the fans in the stands to the players inside the dressing room, the night became a tribute to one of the greatest forwards of his generation.
Raphinha’s admiration for Lewandowski
After the final whistle, Raphinha spoke, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, about Lewandowski’s impact on the team and made it clear that the striker’s influence went far beyond goals.
“Since he arrived at this club, he has contributed so much through his work, his goals, his character and his experience. I think the fairest thing we could do today was to pay this tribute to him.
“Obviously, we wanted him to have scored a goal, but it doesn’t matter. What mattered was the affection we all have for him.
“We are all grateful to have shared a dressing room with him. He has been an example,” he noted.
Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona player
Lewandowski played his final home game for Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
The Brazilian also explained the impact of the veteran forward, explaining, “Even without playing, without getting any minutes on the pitch, he has always been an example. He has worked incredibly hard.
“From day one, right up to today, he has remained the same person, the same hard worker.
“It was a source of pride to have him in our team,” said Raphinha.
Gesture towards Lewandowski
The Brazilian revealed how some senior figures inside the squad wanted to make the evening even more special for Lewandowski.
Speaking about the decision to hand him the captain’s armband, Raphinha explained,
“Ronald, Pedri and I were talking this morning and we decided that letting him wear the armband was the least we could do for him.
“In the dressing room, he was one of the role models and we’re proud to be able to enjoy this moment with him.”
Gavi’s learning from Lewandowski
❝ We'll miss Lewy a lot. ❞
Pablo Gavi pic.twitter.com/tj4yjsTgVb
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 18, 2026
Midfielder Gavi also shared an emotional message after the match while speaking about Lewandowski’s departure.
The youngster admitted that the dressing room will deeply feel the absence of the veteran striker, especially because of the guidance and advice he constantly offered to younger players.
“We’re going to miss him a lot. He’s one of the best strikers in history. I wish him all the best. He’s always helped me with advice.
“He’s a football legend. I always listened to him because he’s a brilliant player. It’s a shame he’s leaving.”
Gavi also praised the professionalism Lewandowski maintained throughout his career, particularly at this stage of his journey in football.
“Not all players can be in such good shape at 37. Lewandowski, even though he arrived at the end of his career, has won us many titles, scoring plenty of goals himself.
“We must be eternally grateful.”