Robert Lewandowski has completed a move to MLS side Chicago Fire on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract at Barcelona. The 37-year-old Polish striker, who scored 120 goals in four seasons for the Spanish giants, has opted to cross the Atlantic despite interest from other European clubs.
Lewandowski's Legacy and Move to Chicago
Lewandowski leaves Barcelona having maintained his prolific form, adding to his remarkable tally of 344 goals for Bayern Munich earlier in his career. His decision to join Chicago Fire was influenced by the city's large Polish community, one of the largest outside Poland. The signing was announced on the board outside Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, and was met with widespread excitement.
One local restaurant offered 100 free Polish hotdogs to celebrate, while the Chicago Bulls also welcomed the striker via social media. Chicago Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “From the day Joe Mansueto and I met for the first time, we set out to build a world-class Club that inspires greatness, unites Chicago and wins championships. Robert embodies those values and represents the standards this city deserves: a champion and a competitor.”
One-Year Deal and New Stadium
Lewandowski has signed a one-year contract with Chicago Fire, coinciding with the opening of their new stadium, McDonald’s Park. The club's state-of-the-art Endeavor Health Performance Center opened last year. The move marks a new chapter for the Champions League winner, who was widely considered unlucky not to win the Ballon d'Or in 2020, a year the award was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lewandowski may not be the only high-profile European player to move to MLS, with former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro also linked with a switch to the United States after his contract expired.
