Robert Lewandowski Endorses Rodri for Barcelona Midfield Role
Robert Lewandowski has given a ringing endorsement of Barcelona’s decision to hand their midfield keys to Rodri, insisting the Spanish World Cup winner is exactly what Hansi Flick’s new-look side needs.
The Polish striker, who left Camp Nou for Chicago Fire this summer, walked out of a dressing room that suddenly felt light on leaders. Flick moved quickly. He wanted experience, authority, and a player who could dictate the tempo of big matches. He wanted Rodri.
Lewandowski, speaking to Radio Marca, made it clear why he believes Barça have got this one right.
“He’s a player who knows what the team needs, how to play going forward, but also how to contribute a little more in defence,” Lewandowski said. “He's the kind of experienced player I think this team needs. He’s a player who has been performing at the highest level not just at the World Cup, but for many years now.”
For Flick, that blend of control, calm and competitiveness is the answer to the void left by Lewandowski’s departure. For Lewandowski, it is simply the profile Barcelona cannot do without if they want to keep winning.
The interview also pulled him back to his own Barcelona chapter. He arrived from Bayern Munich in 2022 and immediately became the reference point in attack. Over four seasons, he collected three La Liga titles and a Pichichi trophy, leaving with his legacy firmly intact.
“It was a very special four years for me in Barcelona,” he reflected. “But there comes a time when you have to try something different and take a new step, and I’m very happy now.”
The move to the United States has pushed him far from the European spotlight and into a very different rhythm. New league, new culture, new expectations. Even for a serial winner, it takes time.
“It’s normal [to need time], not only because I’m leaving Europe, but also because I’m moving to the United States,” he admitted, acknowledging the size of the shift as he settles into life in Chicago and adapts to MLS.
Yet distance has not dulled his connection to Barcelona. The striker, who describes himself as “more cold-hearted” than emotional, made it clear that his bond with the club and his former team-mates remains intact.
“I’m not a very emotional person, I’m more cold-hearted, but this is a moment when I’ll always be there to support and help FC Barcelona and my former team-mates,” he said. “I’m watching what’s happening now and I’m sure they’re going to win a lot of games.”
As Rodri steps into the heart of Flick’s side, tasked with anchoring the midfield and guiding a young squad through another demanding season, Barcelona will be desperate to prove him right.
