Former Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski reportedly turned down a lucrative €200 million contract offer from the Saudi Pro League during his final season at the Spanish club, choosing instead to remain at Camp Nou.
The revelation was made by the Polish forward’s agent, Pini Zahavi, following Lewandowski’s recent move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.
According to Zahavi, the Saudi proposal would have earned Lewandowski €100 million per season over a two-year contract, making him one of the world’s highest-paid footballers.
Despite the financial incentive, the veteran striker declined the offer because he wanted to continue playing for Barcelona at the time.
Zahavi explained that Saudi Arabia had initially been Lewandowski’s preferred destination if he were to leave Spain, citing its proximity to Poland and minimal time difference compared to the United States.
However, the striker was unwilling to leave Barcelona in the middle of the season, even after being informed that the offer might not remain available in the future.
The agent also noted that changes in Saudi Arabia’s transfer strategy, coupled with wider regional developments, made it increasingly unlikely that the same level of offer would still exist later.
As a result, he advised Lewandowski that waiting until the end of the season could reduce his chances of securing a similar deal.
Although Barcelona president Joan Laporta was reportedly keen for Lewandowski to stay, sporting decisions were left to sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick.
According to Zahavi, the club could not guarantee the Polish international a regular place in the starting lineup, a factor that ultimately influenced his decision to leave.
Lewandowski eventually completed a move to Chicago Fire, prioritising regular playing time over financial rewards.
However, his start to life in Major League Soccer has already been disrupted, with environmental conditions delaying his expected debut for the American club.
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