Lewandowski reflects on World Cup performance and MLS debut
Lewandowski’s MLS debut with Chicago Fire
Robert Lewandowski, the Polish striker, recently made his MLS debut with Chicago Fire. This debut occurred in a match against Inter Miami, which resulted in a 3-2 loss for Chicago Fire. Lewandowski started the game as part of Gregg Berhalter’s lineup but was substituted in the 63rd minute. He acknowledged that he needed more time to adapt, stating, “After almost two days with my teammates, I didn’t expect everything to work in the first match. I need a little more time.” He also mentioned that the initial plan was for him to play between 45 and 60 minutes.
The striker expressed regret over the team’s defeat, suggesting that a more offensive approach with the ball could have secured a draw. He remains optimistic about future performances, adding, “I’m sure that everything that didn’t work today can work in the next match.” Lewandowski is expected to have another opportunity to score his first MLS goal this Saturday when Chicago Fire visits New York City.
Reflections on the World Cup 2026
Prior to his MLS debut, Lewandowski commented on the recent World Cup 2026, particularly regarding the performance of his former Barcelona teammates. He expressed happiness for the eight Barcelona players who became world champions with Spain. These players include Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Eric García, and Joan García. Lewandowski noted their youth and rapid success, saying, “They are very young players; a few weeks ago I was playing with them and now I can see them as champions. Congratulations to them.”
Despite his congratulations, Lewandowski offered a nuanced view on Lamine Yamal’s individual performance during the tournament. He suggested that Yamal did not showcase his best form at the World Cup. According to Lewandowski, Yamal’s peak performance was observed two seasons prior, not in the most recent season. He attributed this to Yamal’s return from an injury layoff just before the start of the tournament, which limited his game time. “Honestly, no, we didn’t [see his best this tournament]. The best performance, the best Lamine for me, of course, wasn’t the last season, but two seasons ago, that was for me now the best version of Lamine Yamal,” Lewandowski told reporters.
He further explained the challenges faced by Yamal, stating, “He’s still young, he came to the World Cup after injury and he didn’t play for like eight weeks so it’s tough if you don’t play eight weeks and you have to start playing in the World Cup, then you don’t have time for the training just from game to game.” However, Lewandowski acknowledged Yamal’s quality and the collaborative effort within the Spain team, noting that “he showed really good quality. The Spain players and the team helped Lamine and Lamine also helped the whole team. I think that this cooperation was perfect.”
Lewandowski, who did not participate in the World Cup himself, supported the Spanish national team due to his close ties with many of their players from his time at Barcelona. He mentioned his personal connection with Leo Messi from Argentina but ultimately supported Spain because of the time spent with his former teammates. He was pleased that they were ready to win the World Cup and recognized their youth as a promising sign for their future.
The Polish striker’s comments highlight both his personal transition to a new league and his continued interest in the success of his former colleagues on the international stage. His next opportunity to score for Chicago Fire is scheduled for Saturday against New York City.
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Source: marca.com
