Lewandowski joins Chicago Fire on two-year MLS deal
In brief
- Lewandowski signs two-year Chicago Fire deal with optional third season
- Polish striker becomes free agent after Barcelona contract expires June 2026
- Salary reported at €10–15 million net annually, among MLS's highest
- Lewandowski rejected Saudi Arabian offers to join Chicago Fire
- Arrival expected to boost MLS's global profile and international recruitment
The Move
Lewandowski and his longtime agent Pini Zahavi visited Chicago Fire's training facility around June 12–13, 2026, signaling serious intent. The agreement includes an option for a third season, giving both sides flexibility as he enters the latter stages of his career. Lewandowski reportedly received offers from Saudi Arabian clubs but deprioritized those offers in favor of the MLS opportunity, a choice that underscores his interest in competing at the highest level of American soccer.
Career Pedigree
The signing brings elite European pedigree to MLS. At Bayern Munich, Lewandowski won eight consecutive Bundesliga titles and scored 41 goals in a single Bundesliga season in 2020–21, breaking Gerd Müller's record that had stood for nearly 50 years. He also won the Champions League in 2020. His move to Barcelona in 2022 extended his career at the highest level of European competition before the contract expired.
MLS Context
Lewandowski becomes the biggest European star to land in MLS in recent years. The Designated Player rule, originally created to bring David Beckham to LA Galaxy in 2007, was designed precisely for marquee signings of this caliber. Chicago Fire won the MLS Cup in its inaugural 1998 season, and Lewandowski's arrival could reinvigorate the franchise and boost the league's global visibility. His presence may attract more international talent to American soccer and signal that MLS remains a viable destination for world-class players.
