Robert Lewandowski Slams Bayern For Not Being Loyal: 'Something Died Inside Me'

Robert Lewandowski has emphasized his desire to leave Bayern Munich in the summer, claiming that "something died inside" him when the club began to drag on with his contract extension talks.

Lewandowksi has decided to part ways with Bayern Munich after "eight beautiful years" because he wants "more emotions in my life."

One of the great playmakers of the modern era, Lewandowski finished the 2021-22 season with 50 goals in 45 games in all competitions. The two-time FIFA Best award winner has now netted at least 40 goals across each of the last seven seasons.

With the 33-year-old Lewandowski showing no signs of a downfall, Bayern would have been expected to do all they can to retain him. However, the Polish star has revealed that was not the case, and he is now looking for a new challenge away from the Munich-based club.

"They didn't want to listen to me until the end. Something died inside me, and it's impossible to get over that. Even if you want to be professional, you can't make up for it. When you have been at the club for so many years, you were always ready, you were available, and despite the injuries and pain you gave your best, I think it will be best to find a good solution for both sides, and not to look for a one-sided decision," Lewandowski told Polish outlet OnetSport.

Ahead of the 2014-15 season, Lewandowski made an exciting move from Borussia Dortmund to their Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich. He has won the league title with Bayern in each of his eight seasons at Allianz Arena. The veteran forward has scored 344 goals and 72 assists in 375 competitive appearances for Bayern over the years.

Lewandowski has a year left on his contract, giving the Bundesliga champions the chance to cash in on him.

When asked whether Bayern could play hardball in his transfer case, Lewandowski replied, "What for? What kind of player will then want to come to Bayern knowing that something like this could happen to him? Where are the loyalty and respect then? I have always been ready, I have spent eight beautiful years here, I have met so many wonderful people and I would like it to stay that way in my head."

Meanwhile, Lewandowski is heavily linked to a move to FC Barcelona ahead of the 2022-23 campaign. The Bayern Munich forward has confirmed that he isn't considering any other offer but Barcelona's at the moment, 90Min reported.

Lewandowski already has a verbal agreement with Barcelona over a three-year deal, according to Fabrizio Romano, who has a credible record in the European soccer market. However, he is waiting for an agreement to be reached between Barcelona and Bayern.