Barcelona set two conditions for Lewandowski to stay beyond this season, second prompts reluctance

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NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 17: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona looks on during a training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 against Newcastle United at St James' Park on September 17, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

FC Barcelona are approaching a decisive moment regarding Robert Lewandowski as the season enters its most important phase. The Polish striker is now in the final six months of his contract and, as things stand, no formal renewal offer has been presented by the club.

This situation has placed his future firmly under the spotlight and sparked widespread speculation about his next move.

In this context, Barcelona have taken a measured approach rather than forcing an immediate exit. According to SPORT, the club has effectively left the final decision in Lewandowski’s hands. They are open to his continuity, but only if he agrees to two conditions presented by the club.

The first condition concerns his role on the field. At 37 years of age, Lewandowski is no longer expected to be the automatic focal point of the attack every week. Barcelona want him to accept fewer minutes and a rotational role that allows him to make a decisive impact in key matches rather than carry the attacking responsibility in every game. This is not too different from his current situation and appears acceptable to the Pole.

The second condition revolves around finances and has already prompted reluctance. Lewandowski is one of the highest earners at the club, with a gross annual salary of around €26 million. Given Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints and their plans for future squad development, the board considers this figure unsustainable for a player whose role will be reduced.

The club is asking him to accept a significant salary cut, close to half of his current wages. This proposal has met with some resistance from the players’ camp, who are reluctant to make such a substantial economic sacrifice.

Ultimately, the decision now rests with Lewandowski. He must choose whether to accept a reduced sporting role and lower salary to remain at Barcelona, or to pursue an exit that could even improve his financial package if he moves to a more lucrative league, such as the Saudi Pro League or MLS, where he could also secure a more prominent role.

The coming months will reveal whether a compromise is reached or whether one of the club’s most iconic signings concludes his time at Barcelona at the end of the season.

Tags FC Barcelona Robert Lewandowski