Former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has joined Barcelona on a short-term contract, ending his brief retirement.
The 34-year-old Polish international had announced his retirement from football in August but was persuaded to reconsider his decision by fellow countryman Robert Lewandowski.
Meanwhile, Wojciech Szczesny could have rejoined Arsenal in the summer transfer window according to report but instead joined the Catalan Giants on Wednesday, October 2nd.
The 34-year-old Poland shot stopper revealed that Lewandowski was the first person to approach him about joining Barcelona, following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s season-ending knee injury.
Lewandowski’s call sparked Szczesny’s decision to consult with family and friends, who unanimously advised him not to pass up the opportunity.
Szczesny said in an interview with El Mundo Deportivo: “He [Lewandowski] was the first person who called me to look at the possibility of this happening because I was retired.”
Furthermore, Szczesny emphasized the importance of family in his decision-making process, stating: “At first I was not prepared for new challenges so I talked to my family and friends and everyone told me that it would be a mistake not to accept this.”
“That’s why Robert played a very important role because he was the person who had the idea to convince me.”
Wojciech Szczesny expresses his excitement about joining Barcelona
The former Juventus goalkeeper expressed his excitement about joining Barcelona, feeling a sense of pride and belonging to the Catalan giants.
He added: “It is a moment of huge pride. Honestly, I was prepared for retirement. I was happy in that situation but being here these first two days in the city and seeing how people have treated me and how important it is to them has made me feel proud and part of this exciting family.”
“Although it is a great institution and a great soccer club, I have felt the feeling of family. Family is very important to me and now I have extended it a little.”
Szczesny’s unexpected return to football marks a new chapter in his career
After signing with Arsenal at the age of 16, Szczesny went on to make a total of 181 appearances for the club. He also had stints at Brentford, Roma, and Juventus.
Subsequently, the Polish goalkeeper spent seven years at Juventus, making 252 appearances and winning three Serie A titles and three Coppa Italia.
Furthermore, with 84 caps for Poland, Szczesny brings valuable experience to Barcelona’s goalkeeping department.
Wojciech Szczesny’s illustrious career marked by numerous titles and accolades
Interestingly, the renowned Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has accumulated an impressive array of titles and individual honors throughout his distinguished career.
Szczesny’s achievements with Arsenal include: FA Cup victories in the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons, FA Community Shield winner in 2014 and Runner-up in the Football League Cup in 2010-11.
Also, during his tenure with Juventus, Szczesny secured three consecutive Serie A titles from 2017-18 to 2019-20, Coppa Italia triumphs in 2017-18, 2020-21, and 2023-24 and Supercoppa Italiana cups in 2018 and 2020.
Individual Honors
Szczesny’s exceptional goalkeeping skills have been recognized through various awards which include the Polish Newcomer of the Year in 2011.
In addition, he won the Premier League Golden Glove in 2013-14 and Lega Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year in 2019-20
What’s next for Wojciech Szczesny and Barcelona?
Szczesny watched Barcelona’s 5-0 Champions League victory over Young Boys, where Lewandowski scored twice.
He will now compete with Inaki Pena for the number one spot, providing cover for the injured Ter Stegen.
What’s your take on Robert Lewandowski influencing the transfer of his countryman Wojciech Szczesny to Barcelona? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comments box below:
