Lewandowski reveals shocking truth behind Barcelona bonus controversy

Financial tension behind the scenes

Robert Lewandowski has opened up about a sensitive episode from his early months at Barcelona, shedding light on how the club’s financial difficulties influenced internal discussions during a critical period.

According to The Touchline, the striker responded to claims that Barcelona asked him to limit his goal scoring in order to avoid triggering a bonus payment owed to Bayern Munich. Lewandowski did not directly confirm the allegation but acknowledged that money related considerations were part of the conversation.

“There are some things that I don't want to speak about. I respect FC Barcelona, and everyone who works there,” Lewandowski said, choosing to proceed carefully.

Awareness of the club’s situation

Lewandowski made clear that he understood the wider context in which the issue arose. Barcelona were navigating severe financial constraints at the time, something that affected multiple areas of the club.

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“I was aware of the club situation. Many things had to be resolved for the good of the club,” he explained.

Barcelona’s economic problems had already been widely reported across European media prior to Lewandowski’s arrival from Bayern Munich in 2022, with several transfer deals containing complex performance related clauses.

Bonus clause confirmed

The forward then addressed the matter more directly, confirming that a bonus payment was indeed involved.

“In summary, it was a bonus. At that moment, Barça were looking at every single euro. It was not a small thing,” Lewandowski said, according to The Touchline.

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While the circumstances were unusual, he stressed that the situation did not change his professional approach on the pitch.

“For me it didn't change anything, I had no problems with it, but I kept wondering if I should score or not.”

Where football meets financial reality

Lewandowski’s remarks offer a rare glimpse into the difficult balance clubs must strike between sporting ambition and economic survival. His comments highlight how even elite players can find themselves navigating uncertainty when financial pressures intersect with performance incentives.

Sources, The Touchline

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