Bayern Munich head coach Julian Nagelsmann hopes that the club’s fans will offer a warm reception to Robert Lewandowski when he returns for the first time with Barcelona.
Barcelona make the trip to Allianz Arena to face the German champions in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, only months after the Polish striker swapped sides.
But the 34-year-old’s exit from Bayern wasnt smooth, leaving a slightly sour taste in some mouths.
“If I see him before then I’m certainly going to give him my hand. I’m not sure if I’ll see him beforehand, usually I don’t,” Nagelsmann told reporters.
“I’m looking forward to our fans welcoming him back. When a player has been so strong for the team over the years, I think it’s important.
“He was an important part of the Bayern family. We had a personal exchange a couple of weeks back, not regarding football. I am looking forward to seeing him again.”
Lewandowski, who won eight Bundesliga titles and one Champions League crown with Bayern, has started excellent at Barca, with nine goals in six games in all competitions.
Nagelsmann added: “I think he can still continue to play at that level for a couple of years, I’m not sure how many goals he can score this season, I’m no genie.
“I think it will be plenty. He has scored 40 plus usually, so I think he can do that in the Spanish league as well.
“I’m not sure if he’s the most dangerous, but he’s certainly one of their most dangerous players, the one that can score the most goals. They have great solutions there.
“Lewandowski always has great runs and positions inside the box. He’s the most dangerous in front of goal, but if he doesn’t get a lot of balls, it’s difficult (for him).”
Barca boss Xavi said Lewandowski was “very motivated” having been rested in Saturday’s 4-0 win at Cadiz, playing only the final 35 minutes.
“I see Robert very well,” Xavi said. “He is very motivated, he rested the other day and he will be fresh. I imagine it will be very special for him.
“Tomorrow we will try to show our personality and beat one of the best teams in the world.”
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