Szczesny's Response to Lewandowski on Potential Barcelona Move Revealed
The Polish striker called his compatriot, and the former goalkeeper's response was clear and firm.
Wojciech Szczesny, a 34-year-old former Polish international, is reportedly the top choice to replace the injured Marc-André ter Stegen as FC Barcelona's goalkeeper. Hansi Flick, Barça's current coach, is said to be backing the move, and unless there are unexpected changes, Szczesny is expected to join the Catalan club in the coming days.
Reports from Poland initially suggested that the former Juventus goalkeeper would undergo his medical in Barcelona this Thursday, but the club has denied that any such examination is scheduled for today. One reason for the potential delay, as revealed by journalist Jofre Mateu on the show "Qué t'hi jugues" on SER Catalunya, is an important conversation between Szczesny and fellow Pole, Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski, keen to bring his compatriot to Barça, allegedly reached out to Szczesny to discuss the move, with the latter expressing reservations about joining unless he is guaranteed a starting position.
"From what I've heard, there's been a call between Lewandowski and Szczesny where the goalkeeper made it clear that he's happy where he is. He said he wouldn't join Barça unless he was the starter. He doesn’t want to end up on the bench," Mateu explained.
Szczesny had originally retired from football after representing Poland in the last European Championship, despite having a year left on his contract with Juventus. However, with Barcelona in need of an experienced goalkeeper, the door to his return may be open.
Barcelona's need for a solid backup in goal has become pressing following Ter Stegen’s long-term injury. Flick, who confirmed the search for an experienced goalkeeper after the match against Getafe, emphasized the importance of having reliable options. With Iñaki Peña currently the primary choice and young goalkeepers Ander Astralaga (20) and Diego Kochen (18) both still developing, the addition of Szczesny could provide crucial experience between the posts. Flick, however, has not directly commented on the Szczesny rumors.