Robert Lewandowski Visits Chicago to Negotiate MLS Move with Chicago Fire
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, accompanied by agent Pini Zahavi, is in Chicago for negotiations with Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire. The 37-year-old former Barcelona star is considering a lucrative two-to-three-year contract offer worth up to $20 million annually. While the Fire are eager to sign him and have organized fan events, Lewandowski reportedly still has doubts and is also weighing offers from Saudi Arabia, Italy, and Turkey. No final decision has been made.
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Lewandowski turned down 200 million euro Saudi offer, agent reveals
Agent Pini Zahavi revealed that Robert Lewandowski rejected a two-year, 200 million euro offer from Saudi Arabia in January 2026. The 37-year-old striker instead chose to stay at Barcelona, where he won a second consecutive Spanish championship, before moving to Chicago Fire in the MLS on a one-year deal worth up to 17.5 million euros. Zahavi also noted interest from FC Porto and top Italian clubs like Milan and Juventus, but Lewandowski was not interested in those moves. The Saudi offer was motivated by lifestyle factors like time zone proximity to Poland, but Lewandowski prioritized his commitment to Barcelona.
Barça's 'betrayal' of Lewandowski: He rejected €200M Saudi offer waiting for renewal
Robert Lewandowski ended his contract with FC Barcelona in June 2026 and joined Chicago Fire in MLS after the club refused to renew him. His agent, Pini Zahavi, revealed that in January 2026, Lewandowski rejected a two-year, €100 million per season offer from Saudi Arabia because he wanted to stay at Barcelona. The offer was only available in winter. Zahavi stated that Barcelona president Joan Laporta wanted Lewandowski to stay, but sporting director Deco and coach Hansi Flick could not guarantee him a starting spot, which was more important to the player than money. Chicago Fire offered Lewandowski the second-highest contract in MLS, behind only Lionel Messi. Lewandowski also considered options in Italy (Milan, Juventus) and Porto but chose MLS.
Zahavi: Lewandowski rejected €100M annual Saudi offer to stay at Barcelona before joining Chicago Fire
Robert Lewandowski's agent Pini Zahavi revealed in an interview that the striker rejected a €100 million per year offer from Saudi Arabia in January to remain at Barcelona. Despite Barcelona president Joan Laporta wanting him to stay, sporting director Deco and coach Hansi Flick could not guarantee him a starting role, prompting Lewandowski to consider other options. After negotiations with Porto, AC Milan, and Juventus fell through, he signed a two-year contract with MLS club Chicago Fire worth nearly $40 million total, the second-highest in MLS history behind Lionel Messi. Zahavi stated Lewandowski prioritized playing time and a leadership role over money, and that Chicago Fire's persistent pursuit over a year was decisive. The agent also noted that Laporta called Lewandowski 'the one who saved Barcelona' and left the door open for a future return to the club in a non-playing capacity.
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Lewandowski Fails to Score on Debut for Chicago Fire in MLS
On July 23, 2026, Robert Lewandowski made his debut for Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer against Inter Miami but failed to score. The article notes that this continues a pattern for the striker, who has not scored on his debut for his last four clubs: Lech Poznań (2008), Borussia Dortmund (2010), Bayern Munich (2014), Barcelona (2022), and now Chicago Fire (2026). He did score on his debut for Pruszków Torch (2006) and the Poland national team (2008). The report is sourced from Hupu soccer news and references a post on X.
Lewandowski: 'Everything never works from the first day' after MLS debut with Chicago Fire
Robert Lewandowski made his Major League Soccer debut for the Chicago Fire on July 22, 2026, playing approximately one hour in a 2-3 loss against Inter Miami. The Polish striker was not decisive in the match but acknowledged that adaptation to a new team takes time. In his post-match comments, Lewandowski stated, 'Everything never works from day one,' reflecting a realistic outlook on his integration into the squad. The article, published by L'Équipe on July 23, 2026, highlights the challenges of transitioning to a new league and team, even for an experienced player like Lewandowski.
Robert Lewandowski could debut as Fire host Whitecaps
The Vancouver Whitecaps visit the Chicago Fire on Thursday as the MLS regular season resumes after a World Cup hiatus. The match is notable for the potential debut of Robert Lewandowski, who signed a Designated Player contract with the Fire at the end of June. The 37-year-old Polish striker, a two-time Best FIFA Men's Player, joins after four seasons at Barcelona, where he won three LaLiga titles. The Fire (8-4-2, 26 points) sit third in the Eastern Conference, and Lewandowski could pair with MLS leading scorer Hugo Cuypers (13 goals). The Whitecaps (10-2-2, 32 points) lead the Western Conference and have the league's best goal differential (+22). Vancouver's Ryan Gauld is expected to make his regular-season debut after knee surgery, while midfielder Ralph Priso is doubtful with a hamstring injury.
Robert Lewandowski unveiled by Chicago Fire, aims to connect with Polish community and expand club's relevance
Robert Lewandowski, the 37-year-old Polish striker and former Barcelona and Bayern Munich star, was officially unveiled as a Chicago Fire player on July 14, 2026. In his first press conference at the club's training facility, Lewandowski emphasized that his success in MLS will be measured not only by goals and trophies but also by his ability to connect with Chicago's large Polish community (over 720,000 people) and help the Fire grow its market relevance. He acknowledged the need to adapt to a different league and culture, similar to his move to Barcelona. Lewandowski joins a Fire team that finished eighth in the Eastern Conference last year and currently sits third under coach Gregg Berhalter. The signing is seen as part of MLS's trend of attracting older European stars following Lionel Messi's arrival.
Robert Lewandowski Hopes to Achieve More Than Just Winning in Chicago
Robert Lewandowski, 37, was officially unveiled as a Chicago Fire player on July 14, 2026, at the team's training facility. The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich striker, one of the most prolific goalscorers in modern football, addressed media in English, Polish, and Spanish. He emphasized that his success in MLS will be measured not only by goals and trophies but also by his ability to expand the Fire's relevance, particularly among Chicago's large Polish community (over 720,000 people). Lewandowski acknowledged the need to adapt to a different league and culture, drawing parallels to his move to Barcelona. The Fire, coached by Gregg Berhalter, currently sit third in the Eastern Conference and made the playoffs last season. Lewandowski joins a growing list of older European stars moving to MLS following Lionel Messi's success.
Robert Lewandowski hopes to achieve more than just winning in Chicago
Robert Lewandowski, 37, was officially unveiled as a Chicago Fire player on July 14, 2026, at the club's training facility. The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich striker, one of the most prolific goalscorers in modern football, addressed the media in English, Polish, and Spanish. He emphasized that his success in MLS will be measured not only by goals and trophies but also by his ability to expand the Fire's relevance in the Chicago market, particularly among the city's large Polish community (over 720,000 people of Polish ancestry). Lewandowski acknowledged the need to adapt to a different style of football and culture in the U.S. He joins a Fire team that finished eighth in the Eastern Conference last year and currently sits third under coach Gregg Berhalter. The signing follows the commercial and on-field success of Lionel Messi's arrival in MLS.
Lewandowski: Moving to the US is not easy; after Barcelona, I didn't want to join any other European club
Robert Lewandowski, 37, officially debuted at a press conference in Chicago on Tuesday, ending his Barcelona career where he won three La Liga titles, three Spanish Super Cups, and one Copa del Rey. He stated he could not imagine playing for another European club, so his next step is outside Europe with MLS side Chicago Fire. Lewandowski acknowledged the difficulty of moving from Europe to the US but expressed excitement for the new chapter. He consulted former teammates Bastian Schweinsteiger and Thomas Müller about MLS and Chicago, receiving positive reviews. Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter called the signing a major move, believing Lewandowski's experience and professionalism will improve team culture and league standing. Berhalter also sees potential for Lewandowski to form a strong partnership with current leading scorer Hugo Cuypers. Lewandowski emphasized the need for patience during the adjustment period for both his game and family life.
Chicago Fire Signs Robert Lewandowski After 18-Month Pursuit
According to Mundo Deportivo, 38-year-old Robert Lewandowski has officially joined MLS side Chicago Fire as a free agent after his contract with Barcelona expired. He received a grand farewell from Barcelona and turned down offers from Saudi Arabia. Chicago Fire's head coach Gregg Berhalter and sporting director Gregg Broughton led negotiations that began 18 months ago. After Lewandowski's departure from Barcelona was confirmed on May 16, the club accelerated its efforts, arranging overseas meetings, giving him a tour of Chicago, and conducting a market analysis of his commercial potential—noting Chicago's large Polish community. To impress him, Chicago Fire placed welcome billboards along the route from O'Hare International Airport 15 days before the final agreement. The two-time European Golden Shoe winner is expected to debut on July 17 at Soldier Field against the Vancouver Whitecaps, facing former teammate Thomas Müller.
Robert Lewandowski Signs with Chicago Fire FC from Barcelona
Robert Lewandowski has officially completed a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire FC, ending his successful four-year spell with Barcelona. The 37-year-old Polish international signed as a Designated Player through the end of the 2027/28 MLS season. Lewandowski scored 120 goals in 193 appearances for Barcelona, helping the club win La Liga last month. Prior to that, he had an iconic career at Bayern Munich with 344 goals in 375 appearances, winning the UEFA Champions League and 10 Bundesliga titles. The striker also remains Poland's all-time leading scorer with 89 international goals. Chicago Fire FC, currently third in the Eastern Conference, described the signing as a major statement. Lewandowski had previously been linked with Manchester United, but the move never materialized.
Robert Lewandowski joins Chicago Fire on free transfer after Barcelona exit
Robert Lewandowski, 37, has confirmed his move to MLS side Chicago Fire on a free transfer after his Barcelona contract expired. The Polish striker scored 120 goals in four seasons at Barcelona and previously netted 344 times for Bayern Munich. Chicago Fire signed him to a one-year deal, coinciding with the opening of their new stadium, McDonald's Park. The signing was celebrated with 100 free Polish hotdogs handed out near Wrigley Field, and the Chicago Bulls also welcomed him. Director of football Gregg Berhalter praised Lewandowski as a champion and competitor who raises the club's standards. Lewandowski's move follows interest from other European clubs, and the article notes he is a Champions League winner and would likely have won the 2020 Ballon d'Or without the pandemic.
Robert Lewandowski Transfer Confirmed After Barcelona Exit as Chicago Fire Celebrate with Hotdogs
Robert Lewandowski, aged 37, has officially moved to Major League Soccer, signing a one-year free transfer deal with Chicago Fire after his Barcelona contract expired. The Polish striker scored 120 goals in four seasons at Barcelona and previously netted 344 for Bayern Munich. Chicago's large Polish community welcomed the signing with excitement, including a restaurant offering 100 free Polish hotdogs and a message from the Chicago Bulls. Director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter praised Lewandowski as a champion and competitor, emphasizing the club's ambition to win trophies. The move coincides with the opening of Chicago Fire's new stadium, McDonald’s Park. The article also notes Lewandowski's near Ballon d'Or win in 2020 and links European players like Casemiro to MLS moves.
Robert Lewandowski Transfer to Chicago Fire Confirmed After Barcelona Exit
Robert Lewandowski, the 37-year-old Polish striker, has confirmed his move to Major League Soccer, signing a one-year free transfer deal with Chicago Fire after his contract with Barcelona expired. Lewandowski leaves Barcelona having scored 120 goals in four seasons, following 344 goals for Bayern Munich. His arrival in Chicago, which has one of the largest Polish communities outside Poland, was met with excitement, including free Polish hotdogs offered by a local restaurant and a welcome message from the Chicago Bulls. Chicago Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter praised Lewandowski as a champion and competitor who embodies the club's ambition to win championships. The move coincides with Chicago Fire opening their new stadium, McDonald's Park.
Robert Lewandowski Leaves Barcelona, Signs with MLS Club Chicago Fire Until 2028
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, 37, has officially left European football after his contract with FC Barcelona expired. On Monday, MLS club Chicago Fire announced his signing until 2028. Lewandowski, who previously played for Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, scored 119 goals in 191 matches for Barcelona over four seasons, winning three La Liga titles and one Copa del Rey. At Bayern, he scored 344 goals in 374 games, winning eight Bundesliga titles and the 2020 Champions League. The Polish international (167 caps, 89 goals) announced his departure from Barcelona in mid-May. Chicago Fire coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter stated the club aims to 'build a world-class club' and that Lewandowski embodies championship values. The move marks the end of Lewandowski's top-level European career as he joins MLS.
Robert Lewandowski Officially Signs with Chicago Fire in MLS
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, 37, has officially signed with MLS club Chicago Fire after leaving FC Barcelona as a free agent. The Athletic confirmed the move. Lewandowski will join former Lille player Jonathan Bamba in Chicago, currently third in the Eastern Conference. The forward began his career in Poland (Znicz Prszkow, Lech Poznan) before becoming one of the world's best center-forwards at Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich. He is Poland's most-capped player (167 appearances) and all-time top scorer (89 goals), though he failed to qualify Poland for the 2026 World Cup. This marks his first overseas season outside Europe.
Robert Lewandowski signs with Chicago Fire through 2028 MLS season
On June 29, 2026, the Chicago Fire officially announced the signing of Polish striker Robert Lewandowski to a two-and-a-half-season contract through the 2027-28 MLS season. The 37-year-old former Barcelona and Bayern Munich star joins as a designated player pending visa approval and international transfer certificate completion. Lewandowski spent four seasons at Barcelona, scoring 83 goals in 134 league matches and winning three La Liga titles. His prior 12-year Bundesliga career included ten league titles and a 2020 Champions League victory with Bayern Munich. With 697 total career goals for club and country, he ranks third among active players behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. He is Poland's all-time leader in appearances (167) and goals (89), and participated in four European Championships and two World Cups before Poland failed to qualify for 2026. The Fire currently sit third in the MLS Eastern Conference standings.
Robert Lewandowski signs for Chicago Fire in MLS through 2028
The Chicago Fire announced the signing of Polish striker Robert Lewandowski on a contract through the 2027-28 season. The 37-year-old joins as a designated player, pending visa approval and international transfer certification. Lewandowski, described as 'a global soccer icon' by the club, was a free agent after four seasons at Barcelona, where he scored 83 goals in 134 league appearances and won three La Liga titles. He previously played 12 seasons in Germany's Bundesliga for Dortmund and Bayern Munich, winning 10 league titles and the 2020 Champions League. His career total of 697 goals for club and country ranks third among active players behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The Fire currently sit third in the MLS Eastern Conference standings.
Lewandowski Joins Chicago Fire, Surpasses Messi as Top Scorer in Europe's Top Five Leagues Over 15 Seasons
Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer (MLS) has officially announced the signing of Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, marking a new chapter in his career. The legendary forward previously played in Europe's top five leagues for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona, maintaining elite goal-scoring efficiency. According to statistics, over the past 15 seasons in Europe's top five leagues, Lewandowski scored a total of 387 goals, making him the highest scorer in that period, surpassing Lionel Messi who is second with 377 goals. The news was reported by Hupu Soccer, citing a source on X.