Veteran striker reflects on next career steps
Robert Lewandowski has refused to dismiss the possibility of retirement as uncertainty continues to surround his future at FC Barcelona, with the striker approaching the final stage of his contract at the club.
The 36-year-old remains one of Barcelona’s most reliable scorers, but questions are growing about how long he intends to continue at the top level. Lewandowski’s current deal runs until June 2026, though its final year is understood to be dependent on appearances and performance-related clauses.
Barcelona are also navigating financial constraints and long-term squad planning, factors that inevitably place senior players under scrutiny.
While Lewandowski remains an important figure, the fact that he commands a high salary amid Barça’s economic crisis – in the region of €20 million for the 2025/26 season – combined with injuries and Ferran Torres’ solid goalscoring form, has put his future beyond this campaign in great doubt.
The Poland international has acknowledged that he is giving greater thought to life beyond football, even if no final decision has been made.
Lewandowski reflects on longevity and motivation
Lewandowski has stressed that his future will be determined by his physical condition and motivation rather than contract length or external pressure.
“I’m not afraid of what comes next,” Lewandowski told the High Performance Podcast when asked about retirement. “I still feel good physically, but football is not only about the body. It’s also about what you feel inside.”
The striker added that stepping away from the game is something he now considers more openly than earlier in his career, particularly as he balances family life and long-term well-being. However, he also made clear that he has no intention of prolonging his career simply for appearances’ sake.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has continued to back Lewandowski publicly, praising his professionalism and influence within the squad. The former Bayern Munich forward remains one of the dressing room’s senior leaders and a reference point for younger attackers.
Despite that trust, Barcelona’s recruitment strategy suggests contingency planning is already under way. The club have been linked with several forwards across Europe, reflecting a desire to gradually transition rather than rely indefinitely on Lewandowski.
Since joining Barcelona from Bayern Munich in 2022, Lewandowski has scored consistently and helped deliver a LaLiga title, reinforcing his value on the pitch. Yet with age, finances and sporting priorities all intersecting, his long-term future remains unresolved.
Whether Lewandowski continues at Barcelona, moves elsewhere or ultimately decides to retire will depend on how the coming months unfold, with both player and club approaching a pivotal period of reflection.