Wojciech Szczesny, the experienced goalkeeper who joined Barcelona in the autumn of 2024, has openly shared his impressions of this new chapter in his career. Though he initially came to the club after announcing his retirement from professional football, he calls accepting Barcelona’s offer a “big crazy idea” he does not regret.
Szczesny admits that with age, maintaining peak physical and mental form becomes increasingly difficult. He confesses, “Every morning it’s harder to get up, and every training session is tougher. It demands more mental energy, and I feel my body requires greater effort.” Yet, the Polish keeper finds satisfaction in his resilience: “I try every day to get up, go train, and give my best. After training, I get the feeling: I can still do it.”
At 36, Szczesny is aware his role is mostly as a backup to young first-choice goalkeepers like Joan García. Among his youthful teammates, he sees himself as the “older Wojciech,” fueled by their vitality and energy.
One of Szczesny’s most intense experiences was the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan. Though the team lost, he felt immense pride in their effort, which reinforced his belief that “trophies aren’t the most important thing in football.”
Szczesny came out of retirement specifically for Barcelona, a club he greatly admires. Initially on a one-year contract, it was extended in summer 2025 until 2027, reflecting his valued status as a professional and locker room leader.
During the 2025/26 season, Szczesny played 12 matches, mostly covering for the injured Joan García, conceding 21 goals and keeping 14 clean sheets, underlining his importance as a reliable second-choice keeper.
His story at Barcelona illustrates a seasoned athlete embracing the challenge despite age and demanding circumstances, contributing both on and off the pitch.
