Earlier today, Robert Lewandowski announced that he will leave FC Barcelona at the end of the current season, when his contract expires.
The 37-year-old superstar striker will bring an end to a very successful four-year stint in Catalonia, during which he has scored 119 goals and won three La Liga titles, among other trophies.
Barça were open to extending his contract by another year, albeit with a reduced salary and a secondary role in the team. However, the Poland captain has decided that it is time for a new challenge in his career.
Rafa Yuste says goodbye
And, Rafa Yuste, Barcelona’s acting president until Joan Laporta officially assumes office, has praised Lewandowski’s professionalism and legacy following the striker’s announcement.
Yuste was full of praise for Lewandowksi. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
“He arrived as a star and leaves as a legend. Over the past four years, he has been a huge help to the young players, quite apart from his quality and goals; he is a tremendous player, one of the best number 9s in history,” Yuste said.
“He has taught this young squad a great deal; he is a role model, thanks to his professionalism, the way he looks after himself and the way he plays football. I wish him and his family all the very best from the bottom of my heart.”
Confidence in Deco over future signings
Asked about the future of Barcelona’s attack and the club’s transfer plans following Lewandowski’s confirmed departure, Yuste avoided discussing specific names but expressed complete confidence in the club’s sporting department, led by director Deco.
“We’re going to focus on the end of LaLiga. We have a great technical director in Deco, and I am absolutely certain he will know what to do,” he said.
Yuste confident Barcelona will return to the 1:1 rule. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Barcelona have their sights set on Chelsea striker Joao Pedro as the No. 1 target to replace Lewandowski, having all but ruled out a move for their former priority, Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid.
However, any move would depend on the club’s Financial Fair Play situation, and Yuste expressed total confidence that Barça will be back to La Liga’s 1:1 spending rule this summer.
“The 1:1 rule? The staff, the technical department and the finance team are doing a great job, which makes me very optimistic,” he clarified.
Source: SPORT