Lewandowski to leave Barcelona season’s end

BARCELONA, Spain (AP):

Prolific scorer Robert Lewandowski will leave Barcelona at the end of the season, the Spanish club said yesterday.

The Poland striker, who turns 38 in August, was widely expected to be on the move with his contract set to expire.

Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern on a 45 million euro (US$52 million) transfer in 2022 when his new club was in serious financial trouble and still reeling from the exit of Lionel Messi. Lewandowski was seen as a key piece of their rebuilding effort.

He went on to help Barcelona win three Spanish league titles in four seasons, including this campaign, and one Copa del Rey, while scoring an impressive 119 goals in 191 appearances.

"After four years full of challenges and hard work, it's time to move on. I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete," Lewandowski wrote on Instagram.

Lewandowski did not say in his message what is next for his career. He has been linked with a move to Juventus or to leagues outside Europe.

Lewandowski lost the status of being the undisputed first-choice striker for Barcelona coach Hansi Flick this season as the former Bayern coach often preferred the speed and hustle of the younger Ferran Torres.

Lamine Yamal, who has played on Lewandowski's right, praised his attack partner.

"Thank you for everything, for your goals, your leadership, and for believing in me since day one," Yamal wrote on Instagram. "I learned so much from you, on and off the pitch. You will always be a legend."

Barcelona have two games left this season. They host Real Betis today and visit Valencia on May 23.