Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has revealed he agreed to join Manchester United in 2012 to work under Sir Alex Ferguson, but Borussia Dortmund blocked the transfer. The 37-year-old expressed mixed feelings about missing Premier League football but remains satisfied with his decorated career at elite European clubs.
In an interview with BBC, Lewandowski disclosed he actively pursued a move to Manchester United thirteen years ago, stating: ‘I said yes to Manchester United… I wanted to join to see Alex Ferguson.’ The Polish striker was then at Borussia Dortmund, who refused to sell him despite his desire to leave.
Dortmund reportedly blocked the transfer for financial reasons, believing they could earn more by retaining him for ‘one or two more years.’ This decision forced Lewandowski to remain until 2014, when he joined Bayern Munich on a free transfer after his contract expired.
Despite acknowledging possible ‘regret’ about missing Premier League football, Lewandowski emphasized contentment with his career trajectory. He highlighted achievements including eight Bundesliga titles, a Champions League trophy with Bayern (2019-20), and two LaLiga titles with Barcelona since joining in 2022.
Entering his 22nd professional season at age 37, Lewandowski remains motivated to compete with younger players: ‘When I see they still have to catch me, it means this season can also be very good.’ He embraces a mentorship role at Barcelona, particularly with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Lewandowski expressed astonishment at Yamal’s development, recalling first noticing the Spaniard’s ‘special’ talent during 2022 training sessions at age 15. He considers Yamal a Ballon d’Or contender but notes the 18-year-old still has ‘a lot of time’ to claim the award.
The failed transfer represents a significant ‘what if’ in football history. Had Dortmund permitted the move, Lewandowski might have become the long-term successor to United legends like Wayne Rooney during Ferguson’s final seasons.
Lewandowski remains under contract at Barcelona until 2026. His focus is on maintaining peak performance while helping develop young talents like Yamal, as the club seeks to reclaim European dominance.