Robert Lewandowski, who now plays for Chicago Fire FC, gave a clear look at how Lamine Yamal performed at the World Cup. The 19-year-old winger, who plays for Barcelona, entered the tournament still on the mend from a hamstring injury that kept him out for about eight weeks. Still, his impact during Spain’s run to the title was huge.
Though Yamal only scored one goal in the competition, his work in tight areas was something else. He topped all players with 35 successful dribbles, giving Spain a reliable attacking option in matches against strong teams like Portugal, France, and Argentina. His movement and creativity were vital in tight spaces.
How Spain Managed Yamal's Return
Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, was careful with how much playing time Yamal got during the group stage. This cautious approach helped the young player slowly build up his fitness and avoid burnout early on, especially considering the physical demands of the knockout rounds.
Even though Yamal wasn’t as sharp as he used to be at Barcelona, he still brought value to Spain’s attack. His ability to switch from outside to inside play or stretch the defense made him a crucial part of the team. Lewandowski, who played with Yamal at Camp Nou, recognized how well the youngster adjusted to the situation.
Lewandowski's Switch of Allegiance
Lewandowski, who played with several members of Spain’s World Cup squad at Barcelona, said his support for the team in the final had more to do with personal ties than just football. He knew the hard work the players put in to reach the final. Those connections mattered to him.
He also admitted that, even though Poland didn’t qualify for the tournament, Spain’s young team—featuring Yamal, Gavi, Pedri, and others—impressed him with how well they played together. The unity and energy of the squad made it natural for him to back them.
A New Chapter in Chicago
Now that his Barcelona days are over, Lewandowski is getting ready for a new phase in Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire FC. He said he never thought about staying in Europe after leaving Barcelona, instead choosing a fresh challenge away from the continent.
After meeting with coach Gregg Berhalter and seeing how kind the people in Chicago were, Lewandowski felt the move was the right choice. Although his first game was pushed back because of poor air quality due to wildfire smoke, he remains committed to supporting the team and helping them aim for trophies.