Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski announced on Saturday that he will leave the club this summer at the end of his contract.
Since joining Barcelona from Bayern Munich in 2022, the veteran Polish forward, 37, has scored 119 goals in 191 games across all competitions.
Lewandowski helped Barcelona win three La Liga titles, including this season’s trophy, and the Copa del Rey in 2023.
“After four years full of challenges and hard work, it’s time to move on,” said Lewandowski in a post on Instagram.
“I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. Four seasons, three championships.”
The Polish forward joined Barcelona at a low ebb and struggling financially, helping restore them to the Spanish throne and also compete for the Champions League.
“Barca is back where it belongs,” continued Lewandowski.
“I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth.”
Lewandowski will play his final game at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium against Real Betis on Sunday, with coach Hansi Flick confirming his starting spot.
“He spoke with the team, said goodbye, and said it was a great time for him here in Barcelona,” said Flick, who also coached Lewandowski at Bayern Munich.
“I’ve worked with Robert now for years, and we won nine (trophies) together; all the titles I’ve won were with him.
“For me it’s a privilege to work with him. He’s a professional player… every day he gives the best with his body to be at the highest level.
“He’s a perfect role model for young players… This is why he’s still playing at this level.”
Flick said Lewandowski was a “fantastic human, but also a world-class player.”
“Thank you, Robert Lewandowski, for every goal, every bit of fight, and every magical moment wearing these colors,” said Barcelona on social media. “He arrived as a star; he leaves as a legend.”
Lewandowski is one of the most prolific attackers of his time, finishing as La Liga’s top scorer in his first season under Xavi Hernandez.
This season, Flick rotated him up front with Spain international Ferran Torres, and Lewandowski scored 18 goals in 44 games.
The striker has not confirmed his next destination but has been linked to clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States.
