2025 has been a 12 months for Wojciech Szczesny to date – one thing no soccer followers would have thought taking place, contemplating the truth that the goalkeeper introduced his retirement in the summertime of 2024.
However since coming back from retirement to affix Barcelona and enduring a sluggish recalibration course of, the previous Arsenal goalkeeper has established himself as a agency choice for coach Hansi Flick in between the sticks.
Szczesny initially began out serving as the choice for Inaki Pena, who was Barcelona’s prime substitute for the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
The Spaniard by no means fairly disillusioned both. However it was Flick who made an abrupt determination to start out with Szczesny in opposition to Benfica and the dynamics of the Barcelona goalkeeping division has by no means been the identical since.
Szczesny proves his price to Flick
For the reason that flip of the 12 months, Szczesny has featured in 10 aggressive matches for Barcelona, racking up 5 clear sheets whereas conceding simply 9 targets.
Szczesny has taken over the reins from Pena (Picture by David Ramos/Getty Photos)
Throughout this era, the veteran goalkeeper has supplied some high quality performances, notably making a number of essential saves in the latest win in opposition to Rayo Vallecano.
Due to Szczesny’s constant performances, coach Flick has time and time once more reiterated that the Pole is presently Barcelona’s primary goalkeeper.
Will Szczesny stay at Barcelona?
In mild of his sensible performances, a latest report from SPORT suggests Barcelona are considering extending the contract of Szczesny.
The Pole’s present deal in Catalonia expires on the finish of the season. However Barça would possibly look to increase that for an additional 12 months, particularly contemplating the newfound uncertainty in Inaki Pena’s long-term future on the membership.
The Spaniard’s relationship with Flick has reportedly gone chilly so it gained’t be shocking to see him depart Catalonia within the coming summer season.
That’s the place Szczesny’s presence might show to be essential, despite the fact that Barça are greater than prone to search for a substitute available in the market.