Lewandowski could retire after this season

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski is no longer ruling out the possibility of retiring from football next summer, amid uncertainty over his future.

The Polish striker recently stated that he has not yet thought about next season, but will assess the situation depending on how he feels at the end of this season.

In recent weeks, almost all reports from Catalonia have been unanimous that Barcelona have no intention of offering Lewandowski a contract extension after his current deal expires at the end of this season. The 37-year-old showed that he still retains his qualities with a hat-trick in a 4-2 win over Celta Vigo on Sunday, but it seems that the Catalan club is more focused on building for the future.

According to Sport, Lewandowski believes that he can still give something to Barcelona, ??and that he could be useful for another season. Although he is fighting for a starting place this season, the Pole is willing to accept fewer minutes and a substitute role next season – if the club brings in a younger, stronger striker.

Many players at this stage of their careers opt to move to Major League Soccer (US) or Saudi Arabia, where the sporting demands are lower and the salaries are higher. However, despite interest from the Middle East, this option does not appeal to Lewandowski. His family is based in Barcelona, ??where they have built their home in Castelldefels, and he does not want to tear them away from the life they have created unless there is a very serious alternative.

Therefore, if Barcelona decide not to continue with him, then for the first time in his career, Lewandowski could seriously consider retiring from football. Another opportunity in Europe would only tempt him if it gave him the chance to compete at a high level without moving his family. However, it is mentioned that Atletico Madrid could be a possible option, as it would suit his requirements to remain in the European elite.