Wojciech Szczesny says Juventus collected his first year earnings at Barcelona | OneFootball

Wojciech Szczęsny announced his retirement from professional football at the conclusion of the 2023 to 2024 season. Juventus had signed Michele di Gregorio, and although the Poland international could have remained as the second choice, he instead chose to step away from the game. His decision surprised many, yet he felt he had accomplished everything he desired and could enjoy the rest of his life without continuing to play.

Juventus Move On and Barcelona Make Contact

Juventus quickly shifted its focus and began building around its new goalkeeper. However, only a few weeks into the new campaign, Barcelona contacted Szczęsny after losing their first choice to a long-term injury. The Spanish club required experienced cover and reached an agreement with Juventus to bring him in. Although Szczęsny had received several opportunities to resume playing, he declined all of them before accepting Barcelona’s proposal. His willingness to return only for the Catalan side highlighted the importance the club held for him and ultimately influenced his unexpected comeback.

Szczesny v Torino (Getty Images)

Szczęsny Explains His Decision

The move came at a personal cost, and Szczęsny has now revealed the reasoning behind his choice and the financial implications involved. Speaking via Tuttomercatoweb, he said, “Three days before announcing my retirement, I also told Robert Lewandowski that I no longer wanted to play for any club unless we were talking about Barcelona. When they called me, they probably knew they could convince me. I played my first season at Barcelona for free. What I received from Barcelona was exactly what I had to give back to Juve for terminating my contract early.”

His comments illustrate both his admiration for Barcelona and his determination to honour the circumstances of his return. Szczęsny’s transition from retirement to playing again reflects a unique situation driven by respect for a club he valued deeply, coupled with a sense of responsibility toward Juventus following the termination of his contract. His decision marks an unusual but compelling chapter in an already distinguished career.