Poland’s recently-retired Wojciech Szczęsny will join FC Barcelona. The Catalan club found itself suddenly deprived of its main goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen and convinced the Pole to get back in the game. 

One month ago, Poland’s star goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny announced his retirement from professional football. The Varsovian put an end to a successful career during which he played most of international competitions with Poland and played over 250 games for Juventus. 

It took only a few weeks before Szczęsny’s phone rang. FC Barcelona needed him as soon as possible. Sports journalists in Spain explain that it was Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, which insisted on picking the Polish number 1, placing Keylor Navas as a “plan B”. 

FC Barcelona’s golden years are behind us, but the Spanish giant remains one of the most prestigious clubs on the planet. Football observers generally agree that financial gains were not Szczęsny’s main motivation to join. The fact that Wojtek and his family spend their holidays in Marbella (southern Spain) is believed to have made the decision even quicker. 

“Yes, I’m now in talks and considering Barça move. It’d be disrespectful if I didn’t consider this option for my career […] Barça is one of the best clubs in the world”, Szczęsny told Diario Sport.

Szczęsny is only 34 years old and left the big stage while he was in his peak. He is now about to join his old friend Robert Lewandowski who is believed to have lobbied for his teammate. Lewy is having a remarkable early season so far. The 36 year-old striker is currently the most efficient player in La Liga with an impressive seven goals and two assists. 

Lewandowski’s form contributed to the comfortable situation in which FC Barcelona finds itself at the moment. The Blaugranas lead the Spanish League with 21 points, having one all of their matches. Real Madrid is on second position with 17 points. 

Image: X (@FabrizioRomano)

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen