Place Lewandowski’s big Barça dream?
Robert Lewandowski (33) wants to go to FC Barcelona, FC Barcelona wants Lewandowski. FC Bayern does not want to let Lewandowski go, the bosses insist on fulfilling the contract (until summer 2023). That’s the status quo.
Who will be the big loser in this transfer dispute?
Lewandowski could become a loser because he has reached a point in his career where it is no longer clear how long he can play at this incredible level (35 Bundesliga goals in 2021/22). Hence his announcement to the club bosses: “My story at Bayern is over! I don’t see any way to continue playing for this club.”
He has now played two seasons at an unearthly level. Can he still do that from the summer of 2023 or will the Spaniards perhaps no longer be interested? This danger exists.
Barcelona because they would not get their declared number one transfer target. That would not only be a slap in the face in terms of sport, but also in terms of prestige.
Bayern Munich because they have a listless Lewandowski under contract for a year or alternatively hand over the best striker in the world to a competitor in the fight for the Champions League.
What are the facts?
Bayern boss Oliver Kahn (52) has positioned himself clearly. His “Basta” was more than clear. If he moves away from it, he too is in danger of losing face. Difficult.
Lewandowski wants to do something different in the fall of his career before it’s perhaps too late for that. Has explained this to the Bayern bosses and now also to the public.
Barcelona have submitted an offer of 32 million euros to FC Bayern. The reaction of Bayern: There was none. With an offer of 40 million, Bayern will probably not get out of their chairs with enthusiasm.
Problem 1: The successor.
There is no real replacement for Lewandowski on the market. The “natural” successor Erling Haaland (21) goes to Manchester City. Lewy didn’t like the fact that FC Bayern also dealt with the Norwegian. That led to the rupture.
Record national player Lothar Matthäus (61) can understand the disappointment of Poland. Matthäus: “The statements are a clear sign that Robert is very disappointed and does not feel valued. In this case, appreciation doesn’t just mean money for me. If you perform like Robert and you know that the club is still interested in Haaland, it’s difficult to accept. FC Bayern has every right to take a look around. But it is also Lewandowski’s right to express himself in this way.”
Who is the world star, who is the substitute striker?
▶︎ The world star replacement: A world footballer in the squad is of course good for FC Bayern. Sadio Mané (30) would offer the glamor factor (also internationally). But Bayern are planning with Mané AND Lewandowski. The Senegalese are currently haggling over the fee. Bayern offers 30 million, his club Liverpool wants 50 million. So far, the “Reds” have not moved, but it is still quite possible that both clubs will meet for a sum of 35 to 40 million.
▶︎ The striker replacement: Here a trail leads to the bottom of the table in the Bundesliga. Sasa Kalajdzic (24) from VfB Stuttgart has already had talks with the player and his management. Either as Lewandowski’s “trainee” or as a replacement. But BVB is also interested in Ösi-Knipser. This personality is also mega-exciting.
Problem 2: How will Barça pay for the transfer?
The Catalans have to sell players to cover the fee. At an event organized by the Spanish news agency Europa Press, “La Liga” boss Javier Tebas (59) said on Tuesday that the Catalans could not yet sign the Bayern clipper.
So far, only ex-Munich Coutinho (30) has been handed over to Aston Villa (20 million transfer fee). Frenkie de Jong (25) could flush money into the empty coffers (1.35 billion euros in debt). He is considered the player of choice for the new ManUnited coach Erik ten Hag (52).
Spain international Pedri, 19, has been linked with top clubs in England. Other candidates for sale include benchers Martin Braithwaite (30), Memphis Depay (28) and Samuel Umtiti (28).
Is Bayern threatening a Zoff season until 2023 because of Lewandowski?
Matthew: It’s too late to stop him now. It’s not a win-win, it’s a lose-lose situation. Both sides would lose if Robert had to stay.”
The Sky expert is even worried about Lewy’s storm partner: “I’m not just sorry for Bayern, the fans and the Bundesliga. I’m also a bit worried about Thomas Müller, they both benefited a lot from each other. Will he find such a collegial partner again?”
