Barcelona’s preparations for the new season are gathering pace under Hansi Flick, with pre-season results suggesting a renewed energy in the squad.
The Catalan giants have also been busy finalising commercial deals.
Meanwhile, whispers around the Camp Nou continue regarding potential late arrivals, with Flick said to be pushing for an additional midfielder to strengthen the side’s depth.
Young star Lamine Yamal has been the focus of global attention, with many tipping him as an early Ballon d’Or contender despite his age.
And while the club remains focused on future success, one of their biggest names has been reflecting on the path that brought him to Barcelona.
Robert Lewandowski, now 36 and a two-time La Liga champion in three years at the Camp Nou, revealed just how close he came to joining Manchester United before making his way to Catalonia.
Speaking to the BBC, the Polish striker admitted: “To Manchester United. I was decided, I said yes to the club, I wanted to join Manchester United.
“To see Alex Ferguson. At that time it was might second year at Dortmund, and I know that they cannot just sell me, because if they wait they will get more money, and maybe I can wait a year or two.
“It’s true that I’d said yes to United.”
Reflecting on the missed move, Robert Lewandowski added: “It could have been a great experience, but looking back, I was playing for Bayern Munich, then Barcelona.
“I’m very happy with the path of my career, I’m to be a part of these two great clubs, and I have no feeling that I missed something, because every decision I made, I wanted to take it.”
On working with Hansi Flick, Lewandowski was equally full of praise: “We won everything together. Maybe, that doesn’t happen again.
“With the style, we destroyed teams. He’s incredible as a coach, because he is always very clear with players, very firm.
“He’s doing a good job. Before he came, I picked up the phone when there was talk he could be coming to Barcelona, and I told him its the best idea he could have.”
The striker acknowledged the demanding schedule ahead: “It’s going to be difficult to keep this high level, now with so many games.
“I think that people are getting a bit bored, it’s difficult for people.”
It’s a reminder that the transfer could have been completed long ago, but circumstances and timing ultimately saw the opportunity slip away.
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