Robert Lewandowski Begins New Chapter With Chicago Fire

Robert Lewandowski joins Chicago Fire, bringing experience and ambition as the Major League Soccer club targets sustained success and future silverware.

Robert Lewandowski is ready to begin a new challenge with Chicago Fire after completing his move to Major League Soccer (MLS) on a two-year contract following the end of his time at Barcelona.

The 37-year-old striker said he always expected his next move to take him outside Europe once his Barcelona contract expired in May. Speaking at his introductory news conference, Lewandowski said, “I couldn’t imagine myself with a different club besides Barcelona, so that’s why we knew that the next step would be outside of Europe, and of course, it’s not easy to move from Europe to the USA, but we are very excited. But of course, our lives are changing, but it’s a new experience.”

During his spell with Barcelona, Lewandowski scored 119 goals in 192 appearances, helping the Spanish club win three La Liga titles in four seasons, including this year’s championship, as well as one Copa del Rey trophy.

The Robert Lewandowski move also brings remarkable international experience. He has made a record 167 appearances for Poland, scoring 89 goals to become his country’s all-time leading scorer since making his debut in 2008.

As a designated player, Robert Lewandowski will occupy one of Chicago Fire’s special roster spots that allow clubs to exceed the MLS salary cap. The club also plans to open McDonald’s Park, its football-specific stadium, in 2028.

Lewandowski said he believes Chicago Fire have the potential to win titles and is looking forward to contributing to the club’s ambitions. Head coach Gregg Berhalter described the signing as a major boost and said the experienced forward could help transform the team’s culture and strengthen its push for success.

Lewandowski is expected to form a strike partnership with Hugo Cuypers, the league’s current leading scorer with 13 goals, as Chicago Fire prepare to resume their MLS campaign after the World Cup break.

Can Robert Lewandowski make an immediate impact and help Chicago Fire challenge for major honours?