Chicago Fire FC striker Robert Lewandowski has been named to the Major League Soccer matchday 23 reserve team despite registering a goal and an assist in his latest appearance.
The 38-year-old Polish forward earned a spot on the bench following a 2-2 draw against Seattle Sounders, where his contributions secured a point for his side. However, league officials opted for other forwards in the starting lineup.
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi led the starting attack after scoring four goals and adding an assist in matchday 23. French forward Antoine Griezmann also made the team after matching Lewandowski's tally of one goal and one assist, alongside Serbian striker Dejan Joveljic, who scored twice against Chicago Fire.
MLS Matchday 23 Team Selection
The starting XI featured goalkeeper Brian Schwake alongside Reggie Cannon, Neil Pierre, Casemiro, Cavan Sullivan, Hany Mukhtar, Carles Gil, Allan Saint-Maximin, Griezmann, Messi, and Joveljic.
Lewandowski was joined on the reserve bench by several prominent figures, including his former Bayern Munich teammate Thomas Mueller. Mueller also recorded a goal and an assist in the latest round of matches. The remaining substitute positions were filled by Hugo Lloris, Oleksandr Svatok, Mamadou Fofana, Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, Anders Dreyer, Sam Surridge, and Kelvin Yeboah.
Lewandowski's Early Form in Chicago
Since moving to Major League Soccer, Lewandowski has scored five goals and provided one assist across 11 appearances for Chicago Fire. Football analyst Janusz Michallik discussed the striker's transition during an interview with Polish outlet WP SportoweFakty.
Michallik said that given his knowledge of the American league, he did not expect the Polish international to dominate immediately with a flood of goals. He noted that Lewandowski appeared like a fish out of water at times, exhibiting frustration over receiving limited service. According to Michallik, the forward frequently has to drop deep into the center of the pitch to demand the ball and involve himself in play.
Lewandowski joined Chicago Fire FC in Major League Soccer following an illustrious European career where he established himself as one of football's premier goalscorers, notably winning multiple league titles with Bayern Munich alongside Mueller.
Eastern Conference Standings and Next Match
Chicago Fire currently sit third in the Eastern Conference standings, having collected 37 points from 21 matches. They trail second-placed Inter Miami by five points and conference leaders Nashville SC by 15 points, though Chicago hold a game in hand over their rivals.
Lewandowski and Chicago Fire will return to action on September 6, when they face Toronto FC in their next league fixture.
