Robert Lewandowski confirms that the Bayern Munich story has ended
On Monday, Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski said that his story with the German champions was over, and he could not imagine staying
Image credit: pia.images.co.uk Battle for RobertLewandowski has indicated publicly that he wants to leave Bayern Munich this summer, not next year.
Last November, the 33-year-old Polish striker came in second with 98 goals in the last two seasons in the Ballon d'Or voting.
His current contract with the club expires in June 2023, and he stated earlier this month that he would not renew it.
"One thing is certain today, my story with Bayern has come to an end," Lewandowski said during a conference. "After everything that has happened in recent months, I cannot imagine further good cooperation,"
"I hope they will not stop me just because they can. A transfer is the best solution for everyone," he continued.
Bayern Munich's hesitation in offering Lewandowski a contract extension and their apparent interest in Erling Haaland is believed to have caused this fallout. It had left the 33-year-old feeling "disrespected," and he now wants out.
Lewandowski's astonishing statement is coming off a season where he scored 35 goals and assisted three more.
After being knocked out of the Champions League by Villareal, the disappointing season was made worse.
They are already linked to Sadio Mane from Liverpool as a replacement for Lewandowski. Still, the veteran is currently under contract until 2023, so interested clubs will have to negotiate with him and Bayern Munich.
Bayern Sports director confirms that Robert Lewandowski had informed bosses
Bayern's sports director Hasan Salihamidzic stated that Lewandowski had informed his boss that he wanted out.
This confirms reports that Lewandowski, the Bundesliga's second-highest career scorer, could be leaving the club despite a contract that runs until 2023.
Lewandowski joined Bayern Munich in 2014 from Borussia Dortmund. He has won the Bundesliga each year since then and the Champions League in 2020.
The 33-year-old scored 312 goals in 384 career Bundesliga matches, breaking Gerd Müller's 39-year record for goals per calendar season.
Bayern Munich's other striker is Eric Maxim Choupo–Moting. However, Thomas Muller, 32, who signed a new contract at the club earlier in the month, could also lead the attack.
Barcelona is interested in Robert Lewandowski
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has confirmed that talks have begun to sign Lewandowski.
"Yes, Lewandowski is an option," Xavi Hernandez said earlier this month. "He has already said he wants to leave, there are negotiations, but he still has a contract at his club. It won't be easy, Bayern, but it's an option."
After a disappointing season, in which Barcelona finished 13 points off the Spanish title, Camp Nou is looking to bounce back under Xavi Hernandez.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang joined in January and was one of their top scorers, scoring 11 goals in 17 matches. But, after him, there are many questions.
Memphis Depay and Luuk de Jong are both relics of the Ronald Koeman era. They will likely move if Barcelona finds suitors. However, Depay scored 12 league goals, matched by none in the squad.
Lewandowski's addition would instantly make the Barcelona attack feared, Ferran Torres and Aubameyang, and a midfield that includes emerging talents like Pedri.