Barcelona have reportedly decided not to extend Robert Lewandowski’s contract beyond 2026, ending his spell at Camp Nou. With 105 goals in 156 games, the Polish striker could be heading to AC Milan, while Barça prepare for a future without their veteran goalscorer.
Robert Lewandowski’s time at Barcelona appears to be heading towards its conclusion.
According to Catalan newspaper Sport, the Polish striker will not remain at the club beyond the 2025/26 season. His current contract is set to expire in June, and although it includes an option for a one-year extension, Barcelona have reportedly decided not to activate it. This means that Lewandowski, now 37 years old, will be looking for a new destination as his spell in La Liga comes to an end.
The decision reflects Barcelona’s long-term planning. While Lewandowski has delivered impressive numbers since arriving at the Camp Nou, the club is in the middle of a rebuilding process, placing greater emphasis on youth and financial sustainability. With rising stars like Lamine Yamal, Ansu Fati (if he returns to form), and new attacking signings expected in the coming transfer windows, Barça see the 2026/27 season as the right moment to move on from their veteran striker.
Lewandowski’s impact at Barcelona has been undeniable. Since his arrival from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022, he has made 156 appearances across all competitions, scoring 105 goals and providing 20 assists. In his debut campaign, he won the Pichichi award as La Liga’s top scorer and played a crucial role in helping Barça lift the league title under Xavi Hernández. His goalscoring consistency and professionalism set an example for younger teammates, making him a key figure during a transitional period for the club.
However, age is catching up, and although Lewandowski has maintained a high level, Barcelona are wary of relying too heavily on a player entering the final stages of his career. The club’s delicate financial situation also plays a part: Lewandowski is one of the highest earners in the squad, and freeing up his salary would provide significant flexibility for new signings in the attack.
The news has already sparked speculation about Lewandowski’s next destination. AC Milan are reportedly showing concrete interest in bringing the striker to Serie A. The Rossoneri have been searching for a long-term replacement for Olivier Giroud, who is also in the twilight of his career. Lewandowski’s experience, finishing ability, and global profile could make him an attractive option, both on the pitch and commercially. For Milan, signing a player of Lewandowski’s stature would be a statement of ambition as they aim to remain competitive domestically and in the Champions League.
Other options may also open up. Given his legendary career, Lewandowski could attract interest from Major League Soccer in the United States, the Saudi Pro League, or even a return to his native Poland to finish his career. Much will depend on his priorities: whether he seeks another top-level challenge in Europe or a lucrative final chapter abroad.
For Barcelona fans, Lewandowski’s departure will mark the end of a short but impactful era. His arrival in 2022 was seen as a major coup for the club, especially given the financial turmoil that had forced Lionel Messi’s exit a year earlier. While he could not replicate Messi’s influence, Lewandowski provided goals, leadership, and experience at a time when Barcelona desperately needed stability. His professionalism, fitness levels, and commitment ensured that he remained a key player deep into his thirties.
Looking ahead, Barcelona will need to reshape their attacking options. The club has been linked with several younger forwards, and the emergence of Lamine Yamal has provided optimism for the future. Still, replacing Lewandowski’s goals will not be easy, and Barça will be under pressure to find the right balance between investing in talent and maintaining financial discipline.
For Lewandowski himself, the end of his Barcelona chapter will not tarnish his legacy. Widely regarded as one of the best strikers of his generation, he has enjoyed a glittering career, from his breakthrough at Borussia Dortmund, to his record-breaking spell at Bayern Munich, and finally his successful stint in Spain. Few players in modern football have combined consistency, longevity, and professionalism in the way Lewandowski has.
As the 2025/26 season approaches its climax, the Polish captain will still have time to add to his remarkable tally of goals in Barcelona colors. His focus remains on helping the team compete for silverware before he bids farewell to the Camp Nou. What happens after that is still uncertain, but one thing is clear: wherever Lewandowski goes next, he will continue to be one of the most respected strikers in world football.
