Lewandowski: Joining Chicago Fire, ruled out other European clubs after Barcelona

Hupu July 15 — According to ESPN, Robert Lewandowski made his official debut at a press conference in Chicago on Tuesday, answering numerous questions from reporters. The 37-year-old striker has thus concluded his tenure at Barcelona, where he helped the club secure three La Liga titles, three Spanish Super Cups, and one Copa del Rey.

Lewandowski on His Move to MLS

Lewandowski stated that he could not imagine playing for another European club besides Barcelona, which led him to take the next step outside Europe.

"Apart from Barcelona, I couldn't imagine myself playing for another club. Therefore, I knew the next step in my career would be outside Europe."

"Of course, for us, moving from Europe to the US is not easy, but on the other hand, we are also very excited. This means a change in our lives, but it's also a brand new experience. I hope this becomes a new and wonderful chapter in my life and for my family."

Consultation with Former Teammates

Before making his decision, Lewandowski consulted former teammates Bastian Schweinsteiger and Thomas Müller about MLS and the city of Chicago. Schweinsteiger played three seasons for the Chicago Fire, while Müller currently plays for the Vancouver Whitecaps. Both gave positive feedback.

"When I started asking about the situation, not just MLS but also the city and the club, they told me it was fantastic. Not only are the club's training conditions excellent, but the living environment is also very suitable."

Chicago Fire's Current Standing

Since head coach Gregg Berhalter took over before last season, the Chicago Fire has shown significant improvement. The team currently ranks third in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind league leaders Nashville.

Lewandowski on Future Potential

Lewandowski expressed strong belief in the team's potential to compete for titles.

"I see the team's potential to win championships. I am very, very, very happy because this is a new step in my career and life. I hope we can enjoy this process and work together with the existing coaching staff and players not only to win games but, as I said before, to win titles."

"We are in a good position now, but of course, we need to work hard. I hope that at the end of the season, we can be very happy with what we have achieved."

Berhalter on Lewandowski's Impact

Berhalter believes Lewandowski's arrival will not only improve the team's league standing but also positively influence the club's culture.

"This is a major signing for our club. We are very happy to bring Robert here and look forward to seeing how he changes the team's culture."

"After getting to know Robert, I found that he is not only an outstanding footballer but also a very good person. He is very humble yet highly motivated."

"It is impossible to maintain such a high level for so long without being an absolute top professional. Therefore, we are very glad he has joined, and we hope his experience and professional attitude can influence the rest of the team. We already have a good team, and we believe Robert will be a key part in helping us reach the top."

Partnership with Hugo Cuypers

The Chicago Fire already boasts an in-form striker in Hugo Cuypers, who has scored 13 goals in just 11 games and currently leads the league's scoring chart. Berhalter believes Cuypers and Lewandowski can form a highly threatening partnership, and the team has already begun practicing a two-striker system in training.

"We see no reason why Hugo and Robert cannot play together. They are both high-level players who can create opportunities in tight spaces and finish under pressure in confined areas."

"We are very excited about this possibility and believe they can become a very strong combination."

Lewandowski on Adjustment Period

Lewandowski acknowledged that an adjustment period is needed, both for his game and for his family's living arrangements.

"At my age, a transfer is somewhat easier in a way because I know that sometimes I have to be patient with everything happening around me. This includes not only things on the pitch but also life off it."

"When everything in life is already settled, you have to make changes again, step out of your comfort zone, and adapt to new things. This takes time. Of course, I cannot forget that the focus should always be on the pitch. But if everything outside of football is also well arranged and you can enjoy life, then it becomes easier to perform at your best on the field."

Source: ESPN