Wojciech Szczesny is set to make a surprising return from retirement by signing with Barcelona as cover for the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The former Juventus and Arsenal goalkeeper, who retired just last month at 34, is reversing his decision. According to Fabrizio Romano, Szczesny will sign a one-year deal with Barcelona. The Poland international is expected to undergo a medical soon and join the La Liga giants as a free agent.
Wojciech Szczesny has extended his good wishes to Marc-Andre ter Stegen amid rumors linking the former Juventus goalkeeper with a move to Barcelona for the remainder of the season. Ter Stegen is set to miss the rest of the 2024-25 campaign due to a severe knee injury sustained during Barcelona’s 5-1 win over Villarreal in La Liga last weekend.
Barcelona is reportedly looking for a replacement, with Szczesny, available on a free transfer, emerging as the leading candidate. According to SPORT, the 34-year-old is “close” to joining the Catalan club as Ter Stegen’s temporary replacement.
Brief of Wojciech Szczesny’s Career at Juventus and Poland
Wojciech Szczesny, who made 252 appearances for Juventus between 2017 and 2024, left the Italian club by mutual consent last month. However, his potential move to Barcelona is complicated by a clause requiring him to repay Juventus 2 million euros (£1.7m) if he returns to playing after his departure, during which he was paid 6 million euros (£5m). Szczesny was initially expected to retire, and a third of this sum might need to be repaid if he resumes his career.
Meczyki reports that the former Poland international is expected to make a final decision “in the next few hours,” which could result in him signing a deal for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, Inaki Pena will start for Barcelona in their upcoming match against Getafe, with head coach Hansi Flick expressing “full trust” in the 25-year-old keeper.
Wojciech Szczesny on Ter Stegen and his Future
When Mundo Deportivo asked Wojciech Szczesny: “I just hope Marc recovers soon. He is a good friend and a great goalkeeper, and I wish him the best. That’s all I can say.” Additionally, former Barcelona goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has offered to come out of retirement, but he is not considered a serious option now.
Speaking to ‘Sport‘ on Wednesday, Wojciech Szczesny confirmed the talks, stating, “Yes, I’m now in discussions and considering the move to Barca. It would be disrespectful not to consider this option for my career. Barca is one of the best clubs in the world.”
Barcelona will face Getafe on Wednesday night as they aim to extend their lead at the top of La Liga. They also have an upcoming match against Osasuna on Saturday. While it is unclear when Szczesny will officially sign and be available to play, Inaki Pena Sotorres will continue to start in goal for now.
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