Kluivert backs Lewandowski's place among Barcelona legends

Patrick Kluivert has given his backing to Robert Lewandowski’s place on FC Barcelona’s official list of legendary players, arguing that the former striker’s impact at the club went beyond goals alone.

Debate over Lewandowski's Barcelona status

Lewandowski left Barcelona at the end of last season and moved to Chicago Fire after four years in Catalonia. His time at the club brought a substantial body of work: 120 goals in 193 appearances, along with three league titles, one domestic cup and three Spanish Super Cups.

That record was enough for Barcelona to include his name in the “legendary players” section on the club’s official website. The decision, however, has prompted discussion among some supporters over whether the honour was justified.

Kluivert's verdict is clear

Kluivert, himself recognised by Barcelona as a club legend, was asked about the issue in an interview with Meczyki. The former Netherlands forward made it clear that, in his view, Lewandowski deserved the recognition.

His argument was not limited to numbers, although the numbers are significant. Kluivert pointed to Lewandowski’s goalscoring record, but also to the way he carried himself during his spell at the club. In that sense, the endorsement was as much about personality and presence as it was about output on the pitch.

Kluivert’s own standing gives weight to the opinion. During his Barcelona career, he scored 145 goals, and his support for Lewandowski reflects the regard in which the Poland striker is held by at least some of the club’s most prominent former players.

Question over a contract extension

The conversation also turned to whether Barcelona should have extended Lewandowski’s contract, particularly given the club’s difficulties in bringing in a new striker. Kluivert stopped short of framing it as a clear yes-or-no decision, stressing that it was not his call to make.

Even so, he suggested that a player of Lewandowski’s profile could still add something to the current Barcelona squad. At the same time, he noted that the club had handled its transfer business well in the current situation.

A warm farewell after a decorated spell

Kluivert also made clear that Lewandowski remains highly regarded in Barcelona, saying the striker would always be welcome at the club despite the two sides having gone their separate ways.

For Lewandowski, the move to Chicago Fire marks the next stage of his career. For Barcelona, the discussion around his legacy appears unlikely to disappear quickly. But in the eyes of Kluivert, there is little room for doubt: Lewandowski’s record, silverware and conduct were enough to earn him a place among the club’s recognised greats.

• Lewandowski left Barcelona after four years and joined Chicago Fire.
• He scored 120 goals in 193 matches for the club.
• He won three league titles, one cup and three Spanish Super Cups.
• Patrick Kluivert said Lewandowski deserved to be on Barcelona’s legends list.