Lewandowski leaves Barcelona after leading them from low ebb back to top of LaLiga - ESPN

BARCELONA — As the No. 9 was held up to indicate the end of Robert Lewandowski's evening against Real Betis on Sunday, Barcelona's players poured toward the striker to embrace him. Even goalkeeper Joan García joined them, sprinting half the length of the pitch from his goal to be involved. Meanwhile, fans at Camp Nou sang «Ro-bert Lew-an-dow-ski» to the tune of «The Flintstones» theme music.

After four years at Barça, this was goodbye. Lewandowski announced Saturday he will leave the Catalan club when his contract expires in June after scoring 119 goals and winning seven trophies. His next destination is not yet confirmed — sources have told ESPN he has offers from clubs in MLS, the Saudi Pro League and elsewhere in Europe — but Sunday was not about the future. It was about recognizing Lewandowski's contribution to Barça's transformation during his time at the club.

The 37-year-old veteran fought back tears as he made his way off with five minutes to play in Barça's penultimate game of the campaign; their last at home. More emotion followed after full time: his family joining him on the pitch, his teammates giving him a guard of honor and supporters unfurling a banner which read: «Robert, everything started with you» — a nod to his role in the team's metamorphosis.

«This has been a very emotional and very difficult day,» Lewandowski said as he addressed the crowd postmatch.

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After Barça sealed the LaLiga title last weekend, Sunday effectively became Robert Lewandowski Day following his announcement. His presence was