Szczesny was warned about Ter Stegen when he joined Barcelona – ‘Not an easy man’ | OneFootball

While there is much excitement at Barcelona surrounding new signing Joan Garcia this summer, it must be acknowledged that Wojciech Szczesny was the real hero for the club last season.

The Polish veteran was one of La Liga’s best goalkeepers last season, producing a series of consistent performances that ultimately helped Barcelona secure the domestic treble.

However, the road wasn’t always easy for Szczesny, who faced immense pressure from Marc-Andre ter Stegen when he had initially recovered from his injury during the backend of the season.

Szczesny was warned about ter Stegen

To that end, Polish journalist Mateusz Swiecicki has recently revealed that Szczesny was warned about ter Stegen when the German had returned from injury.

“When Szczesny arrived in Barcelona, he received information that when Marc returned, he should be understanding with him because he is not an easy man,” Swiecicki said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

The journalist further added: “Ter Stegen is a unique personality. I think he’s a man who doesn’t want to leave Barcelona at any cost because he’s convinced he’ll be the number one goalkeeper, even though he’s been told he’s third in the current hierarchy.”

Wojciech Szczesny has had to go through major tussle with ter Stegen at Barcelona last season. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Last season’s dynamic between the two keepers was also evident in one of the most emotional moments of the year.

Szczesny broke down in tears after the dramatic 4-3 win over Real Madrid at Montjuic – a result that brought Barça to the brink of the La Liga title, just days after their painful Champions League semi-final exit to Inter.

Fortunately for Szczesny, Hansi Flick was there to back him throughout the season, although the Pole is now set for a new role heading into the 2025/26 campaign.

Indeed, the veteran goalkeeper will serve as a backup for Garcia, who will become Barcelona’s new number one, with Ter Stegen being demoted to third-choice goalkeeper.