Robert Lewandowski, the prolific forward for Barcelona, recently reflected on his illustrious career while selecting his ideal 5-a-side team. This selection pays homage to some of the most outstanding players he has had the pleasure of sharing the field with during his stints at clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona.
In his dream team, Lewandowski features legendary wingers Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben, while Jerome Boateng and David Alaba solidify the defense. Additionally, Lewandowski included former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso as his midfield pick, highlighting the impact of having played alongside so many exceptional talents throughout his career. Notably, he refrained from selecting himself or a goalkeeper, emphasizing his appreciation for others.
Lewandowski remarked, “Bastian Schweinsteiger was so good… but I have Alonso!” showcasing the depth of talent he has encountered. He also reminisced about other greats like Philipp Lahm and Thiago Alcantara, further illustrating the caliber of players he has worked with. While Schweinsteiger faced challenges during his time at Manchester United, he was a phenomenal player during his tenure in Germany. Similarly, Thiago’s injury struggles hindered his time at Liverpool, although he displayed remarkable skill in Germany and Spain.
Alonso, who won the Champions League with Liverpool in his debut season, later enjoyed significant success at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Now thriving as the head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso’s legacy is further reinforced by Lewandowski’s decision to feature him prominently in his lineup.
This anecdote not only showcases Lewandowski’s career but also highlights the rich history of talent in football, reminding fans of the incredible athletes who have graced the sport. As Lewandowski continues to excel at Barcelona, it’s fascinating to see how these legends have shaped the careers of one another, promising fans more memorable moments in the future.
This piece serves as a reflection of not just Lewandowski’s achievements, but also a celebration of football’s interconnected legacy, where past and present players continue to inspire one another.