Robert Lewandowski is ‘phenomenal at every level’ as Barcelona director says only Cristiano Ronaldo is above Polish striker but stop short of confirming contract talks

The 36-year-old’s current deal expires next summer, raising questions over whether this could be his final season at Camp Nou. Despite speculation, Lewandowski remains central to Hansi Flick’s plans and has been decisive with vital goals despite playing more of a bench role so far this season.

Speaking in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Deco was keen to underline the striker’s status among the game’s greatest forwards while urging patience over his contract future. The Pole continues to lead the line for Barca and has scored decisive goals in recent weeks to remind everyone of his enduring quality.

Deco praised Lewandowski’s consistency and professionalism, but noted that there are very few players who have maintained such elite levels across a career, with Cristiano Ronaldo being the only clear exception in his eyes.

“Robert is, for me, the best striker of recent years. He’s a phenomenon at every level. An example in everything. There are few players at this level, except for Cristiano Ronaldo,” Deco said. "With this training culture, this seriousness, this professionalism... We're talking about Robert Lewandowski, a little respect."

The former midfielder also cautioned against public debate around Lewandowski’s future, suggesting timing will be key when renewal talks are held. “We have to take it step by step and not debate it publicly. He’s intelligent enough to know the tempos and timings to talk about this at the right time,” he added.

Sport reports AC Milan have already made contact with his agent, Pini Zahavi, to explore a possible move to Serie A next summer. While Lewa is content at Camp Nou and open to staying another year, Milan are reportedly positioning themselves as a serious suitor should Barca opt against renewal. Saudi Arabia interest has been reserved for later years, as the ex-Bayern Munich forward recently struck down the massive €100 million offer from Saudi Arabia.

Lewandowski has been key for the Blaugrana in recent weeks, scoring decisive headers against Real Oviedo and Real Sociedad to help Flick’s men climb back to the top of La Liga. Those goals also marked a career milestone, with Lewandowski reaching the 700-goal mark in all competitions for club and country. He remains the third-highest scorer in Champions League history with 105 goals, behind only Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, further underlining his enduring value. 

While, on field now the attention quickly turns to the Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, where Lewandowski may be key again in another test of Barca’s European credentials.