Main League might be going through its most provocative transfer since arrived in the US.
Chicago Hearth FC is quietly engaged on an operation that will change the dialog across the league: convincing Robert Lewandowski to cross the Atlantic and develop into the membership’s new icon.
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Since Messi landed at Inter Miami CF, the Herons have monopolized the highlight and headlines. Final season left a convincing mark: 29 targets, reaffirming his standing because the league’s high offensive reference. In the present day, no different participant actually competes together with his affect on and off the sector.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates a purpose through the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports activities, soccer match performed between FC Barcelona and RCD Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou stadium on February 07, 2026, in Barcelona, Spain.Photograph By Javier Borrego/Europa Press through Getty Photos
(Photograph By Javier Borrego/Europa Press through Getty Photos)Chicago Hearth Eyes Robert Lewandowski in Bid to Rival Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami
In Illinois, they perceive that to make a serious affect in MLS, they want a world determine. Lewandowski, nonetheless a FC Barcelona participant, is nearing the top of his contract and his future just isn’t utterly outlined.
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The Hearth board has already explored this risk, in accordance with , and sees within the Pole greater than only a striker.
Head coach Gregg Berhalter believes the affect can be speedy. Lewandowski would not arrive for a retirement tour; his aggressive profile and goal-scoring historical past in Europe make him a pure candidate to compete for the highest of the scoring charts. And that, inevitably, means aiming at Messi.
On the 2021 Ballon d’Or, many specialists and followers thought of that Lewandowski deserved the award after a historic season with Bayern Munich, though it was finally Messi who took the prize. That call left an open debate that by no means totally died down.
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Transferring that symbolic rivalry to American soccer would elevate the spectacle, for positive. It will not be a dialogue at a European gala, however a week-to-week competitors for targets and data in MLS.
This story was initially revealed by on Feb 14, 2026, the place it first appeared within the part. Add Athlon Sports activities as a