Barcelona In Talks With Wojciech Szczesny to Address Goalkeeper Crisis

FC Barcelona is in discussions with Wojciech Szczesny as they seek to bring in an experienced goalkeeper following the injury of their first-choice keeper, Marc-André ter Stegen. Ter Stegen recently underwent surgery and is expected to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season. As a result, Barcelona is looking for a seasoned option to support Inaki Pena, who has stepped up as the current starter.

Wojciech Szczesny, 34, was previously engaged in discussions with Juventus about a potential move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, but those negotiations fell through. Following a mutual agreement with Juventus to terminate his contract, Szczesny is now being considered by Barcelona as a short-term solution to their goalkeeping dilemma. “I have a lot of respect for Barça’s history,” Szczesny commented. “They are one of the best clubs in the world, and I understand the difficult situation they are in after the injury to Ter Stegen.”

The Catalan club is also mindful of La Liga’s salary cap regulations, which have posed challenges in registering new signings. However, these rules allow for the temporary registration of replacement players due to injuries, a provision Barcelona has already utilized twice this season. This regulatory framework provides an opportunity for Szczesny to join even though the transfer window is currently closed.

Hansi Flick, in charge of Barcelona’s sporting strategy, has reiterated confidence in Inaki Pena’s capabilities at a recent press conference. “Inaki Pena is totally ready to play,” Flick stated. “But we also have to consider what we will do to ensure a strong competitive edge in our goalkeeping ranks.” Pena, 25, has stepped into the role following Ter Stegen’s injury but has limited experience compared to veteran Szczesny.

At present, Barcelona’s goalkeeping options are limited due to injuries to younger players like the 18-year-old understudy who is currently sidelined. This situation accentuates the need for a seasoned goalkeeper who can both support Pena and provide valuable guidance to the younger talents.

Wojciech Szczesny, who announced his retirement after representing Poland in Euro 2024, is now considering this comeback. Szczesny’s career has spanned over 15 years with stints at Arsenal, Roma, and Juventus, accumulating 84 caps for Poland and securing numerous trophies. A prospective meeting between Barcelona and Szczesny’s representatives is set to finalize the terms of a short-term contract, expected to last until the end of the season.