Robert Lewandowski joins Chicago Fire on two-year MLS deal
Robert Lewandowski has completed a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire after signing a two-year contract following the expiration of his Barcelona deal.
The 37-year-old Polish striker begins a new chapter in the United States after four successful seasons in Spain, where he established himself as one of Barcelona's most prolific forwards. His contract with Chicago Fire will keep him at the club until 2028.
MLS beats European and Saudi interest
Lewandowski attracted interest from several clubs before deciding on his next destination. Italian giants AC Milan and clubs from the Saudi Pro League were reportedly monitoring his situation, but Chicago Fire ultimately secured the signature of Poland's all-time leading scorer.
The veteran striker is expected to become one of the highest-paid players in Major League Soccer.
Huge boost for Chicago
Lewandowski's arrival represents one of the biggest signings in Chicago Fire history. The move is expected to generate enormous excitement in Chicago, home to one of the largest Polish communities outside Poland.
Fire currently sit third in the MLS Eastern Conference after ending a lengthy playoff drought last season. They resume league action following the World Cup break on July 17 against Vancouver.
Berhalter welcomes world-class addition
Chicago Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter believes Lewandowski's signing sends a powerful message.
"His arrival reinforces our ambition to compete for trophies and raises the standards for the club to heights worthy of this city," Berhalter said.
"We cannot wait to get to work with him and have Chicago see first-hand why he is among the most revered sporting icons in the world."
One of football's greatest goalscorers
Lewandowski leaves Europe after a remarkable career spanning Germany and Spain. His achievements include:
- 10 Bundesliga titles
- UEFA Champions League winner with Bayern Munich (2020)
- Two FIFA Best Men's Player awards (2020 and 2021)
- Three La Liga titles with Barcelona
- 2025 Copa del Rey winner
- Poland's all-time leading goalscorer
The prolific striker scored 120 goals in 193 appearances during his time at Barcelona.
Injury-plagued final season
Lewandowski's final campaign in Spain was disrupted by injuries. He started just 17 league matches during the season, prompting speculation over his future before eventually leaving Barcelona when his contract expired.
Despite limited appearances, he remained one of the club's most experienced attacking leaders.
Barcelona enter new era
Barcelona have already begun reshaping their attack following Lewandowski's departure. The Catalan club recently completed the signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United on a five-year deal worth more than €80 million.
They are also reportedly pursuing permanent moves for Marcus Rashford and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane as they continue rebuilding their frontline.
A new challenge in America
Lewandowski now joins the growing list of global superstars choosing Major League Soccer in the later stages of their careers. His experience, leadership and proven goalscoring ability could significantly strengthen Chicago Fire's ambitions of challenging for MLS Cup honours.
For MLS, landing one of Europe's greatest strikers is another statement of the league's growing global appeal.
SportsLigue
