Robert Lewandowski has explained why his move to Chicago Fire felt like the right next step after leaving Barcelona.
The Polish striker was officially unveiled as a Chicago Fire player and admitted that Barcelona was always going to be his final club in Europe.
Speaking at his presentation, Lewandowski said:
“I decided that after Barcelona I didn’t want to stay in Europe. I didn’t want to keep playing in Europe. I wanted a different challenge, and I couldn’t imagine myself at another club, so I decided my next step would be outside Europe.”
The 37-year-old also acknowledged that moving to the United States was a major decision for both himself and his family.
“It wasn’t easy to move to the USA, but I’m excited about this new experience for me and my family.”
Lewandowski revealed that conversations with former Bayern Munich teammates Bastian Schweinsteiger and Thomas Müller also helped shape his decision to join Major League Soccer.
“MLS has had players like Bastian and Müller, and they both explained what the league is like. I understood what we can achieve with this team going forward. I’m here to play at the highest level and help the team on and off the pitch.”
The veteran striker added that he is still adapting to life in Chicago but is eager to get started.
“I feel good. Today I trained with the team for the first time and I’m happy. Life in Barcelona was different, but we were waiting for this. I’m ready to play in Chicago and ready for this new experience. I hope that by the end of the season we have something to celebrate because I believe this club has a very good future.”
