Robert Lewandowski has confirmed his departure this summer as his contract expires, ending his four-year Barcelona career.

Polish striker Robert Lewandowski announced on Saturday that he will leave Barcelona as a free agent after his contract expires this summer.

In a statement released on his personal social media, Lewandowski wrote: "After four challenging and hard-fought years, it's time to move on. I leave with a sense of accomplishment. Four seasons, three titles."

“I will never forget the love the fans have given me from day one. Catalonia is where I belong. Thank you to everyone I met during these wonderful four years. Special thanks to President Laporta, who gave me the opportunity to experience the most incredible chapter of my career. Barça has returned to its rightful place.”

The 37-year-old Lewandowski previously played for Pruskov, Lech Poznań, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern Munich, winning one Polish Ekstraklasa title, one Polish Cup, one Polish Super Cup, one UEFA Champions League title, one FIFA Club World Cup, ten Bundesliga titles, one UEFA Super Cup, four German Cup titles, and six German Super Cup titles. In July 2022, he transferred from Bayern Munich to Barcelona for €45 million.

To date, Lewandowski has made 191 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 119 goals and providing 24 assists. As the Blaugrana's attacking core for the past four years, he has also helped the team win one La Liga title, one Copa del Rey, and three Spanish Super Cups.

Regarding Lewandowski's decision, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said: "Lewandowski spoke with the whole team and said goodbye. It has been a wonderful journey for him, and he himself has made it very clear. For me, it has been an honor to work with him because he is a true professional."

“He is a role model, which is why he can still maintain such a high level of competition. Now he is eager for new challenges, and we respect that. He is a remarkable person, a great player, and an excellent role model for young players.”

“He always gave it his all. His work ethic was impressive. He was always there for us, through thick and thin. His mindset was always top-notch.”

Flick concluded, "He scored countless goals for us. We will miss him terribly. Now, we must find a way to replace him in the future."

As for Lewandowski's next destination after leaving the team this summer, it remains undecided. According to previous reports, Al-Hilal in the Saudi league, Chicago Fire in the MLS, and Porto in the Portuguese league have all expressed some interest in him.

Image source: Internet/Barcelona official website