Barcelona star does not wish to play El Clasico, hopes first-choice starter recovers in time | OneFootball

Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has once again attracted attention after he made surprising statements expressing that he does not wish to play in El Clasico.

The Polish goalkeeper, who has stepped into the starting XI in recent weeks after the injury to Joan Garcia, said he hopes that his teammate will have recovered and returned to the starting position by then.

“I wish him a speedy recovery, and I’m not expecting to play in El Clasico at all,” he said in an interview with WP Sportowe Fakty (h/t SPORT).

Szczesny stated that he is fully aware of his role at Barcelona, which he sees as helping Garcia, who he described as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper of the team both now and in the coming years.

“I think he’s a guy with great potential. I can honestly say that I can help him a little. I take this role very seriously. I don’t want anyone to have any doubts. There will never be competition for the number one spot here,” he declared.

The Polish goalkeeper explained that his relationship with Garcia is excellent and that he firmly believes the young keeper will become the best in the world.

“I value the clarity of our relationship with Joan. He knows exactly what my role is and I want to influence his performance. I have no doubt about who will be, and who should be, Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper,” he said firmly.

Garcia is recovering from an injury. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Despite this, Szczesny acknowledged that he must remain ready for any situation, as he is currently the second-choice goalkeeper and could be called upon at any moment in the event of an injury or suspension.

“I know it sounds cliche, but my preparation for a match does not depend on whether I play or not. I try to be ready for every opportunity,” the veteran said.

“I expected to be the second goalkeeper, but that carries the risk of having to start in goal at any moment, and you have to be aware of that,” he further noted.

Szczesny decided to renew his contract with Barcelona for one more year, taking into account the plan presented to him by the club.

Last season, he knew he would have many chances to start and ended up playing ahead of Inaki Pena. However, this season he was informed about the restructuring that would take place in the goalkeeping department, and he accepted it.

The Polish international stayed to help the team and, in particular, Garcia during his debut season with the first team. He believes that his experience can provide valuable guidance to the young goalkeeper.