Brother of underperforming Barcelona star makes a shocking claim – “He prefers the bench” | OneFootball

Wojciech Szczesny’s recent performances have raised serious doubts about the goalkeeping position at FC Barcelona. The Polish veteran has been called into action as a backup for the injured Joan Garcia.

But in the eight matches he has played in Garcia’s absence, Szczesny has conceded 15 goals and has failed to keep a single clean sheet.

This run has culminated in high-profile errors, such as the one in the Champions League draw against Club Brugge, which could have ended badly.

As criticism mounts, the goalkeeper’s brother, Jan Szczesny, has made some shocking claims about his brother’s state of mind, suggesting the 35-year-old isn’t comfortable in the spotlight and actually prefers his backup role.

What Jan Szczesny said about his brother

In an interview with WP Sportowe Fakty (h/t Diario SPORT), Jan explained his brother’s mentality.

“I know Wojciech prefers to watch his teammates from the bench and help out if needed. I still see a spark in him after every good save in a match, and I’m happy about that because I enjoy watching him play,” he said.

He expanded on this, stating that his brother has accepted that his time as a top-level starter is over and that he is happy to make way for the next generation, specifically Joan García.

“He’s already experienced enough, he’s played in the most important matches, so it’s time for the younger players. Especially because Joan Garcia is a very capable goalkeeper,” he said.

“Wojciech is always ready, but I think he prefers to be a spectator rather than a participant,” he added.

Szczesny is facing the feat this season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

This mentality of relief over ambition might explain the reaction to the controversial VAR decision in the match against Club Brugge.

Szczesny made a glaring error that led to a goal, which would have made the score 4-3, only for the referee to disallow it for a dubious foul.

Jan Szczesny admitted his relief at the call: “For me, it was a dubious play. If the referee hadn’t called the foul, he would have defended his performance. I’m glad he decided to disallow the goal.”

Despite these claims, Jan was quick to defend his brother’s professionalism, insisting that he is not shirking his duties and is fully prepared to play as long as needed – even if he’d rather not.

“We all know that Wojtek is the second-choice goalkeeper. My brother was prepared for this from the beginning. The change will depend on when García is 100% fit to play,” he said.

“I don’t know anything. From a coach’s perspective, I think the goalkeeper position is so important that it’s better to wait two more weeks than to make a change a week early,” he concluded.