Barcelona ace ‘would have no problem’ stepping away once injured superstar returns | OneFootball

Wojciech Szczesny, FC Barcelona’s current first-choice goalkeeper, has gone 20 matches unbeaten since making his debut for the club back in January earlier this year.

The 34-year-old has displaced Inaki Pena as the starter in the absence of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who is in the final phase of his recovery from a knee injury.

As such, there has been discussion about how the goalkeeping department will be affected once Ter Stegen, who is back in training, is given the medical all-clear to return to playing.

And, Szczesny has shown a remarkable display of sportsmanship by expressing full support for the potential return of Ter Stegen before the end of the season.

Indeed, the Pole has made it clear that he would have no objections if the German resumed his starting role.

Speaking to media in his home country, Szczesny stated: “Ter Stegen has already started training with us and is looking good, but most importantly, he is healthy – and that is what matters most.”

Ter Stegen has been recovering from the injury he sustained in September, which required surgery and several months of rehabilitation.

Szczesny, who signed for Barcelona last October while retired and living in Marbella, stepped in following Ter Stegen’s setback.

Closing in on a comeback. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Despite becoming a key figure in Flick’s side, the former Juventus and Arsenal shot-stopper expressed humility and respect for the club’s long-time captain.

“I say this with complete peace of mind: I came here to replace Marc, and I would have no problem at all if Marc simply returned and took his place back,” Szczesny said.

He added that the final decision rests with Flick and reiterated his commitment to the team’s success over personal ambition.

“I want to help the team and give my best on the pitch, but if the coach decides at any point that the captain should return and take over the goal, for me that is a completely normal and understandable situation,” he noted.

As has already been reported, while Ter Stegen can return and play in La Liga and the Copa del Rey without any issues, for him to feature in the UEFA Champions League, Szczesny would need to be deregistered.

Whether Barça decide to go down that route once their captain returns to action remains to be seen.

Source: Mundo Deportivo