Wojciech Szczesny has confessed that former Poland teammate Robert Lewandowski was key to his surprise transfer to Barcelona.
Barcelona lost their usual starting goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen to a serious knee injury which is expected to keep him sidelined for the entire season and, after a brief search around Europe, struck a one-year deal with Szczesny, who had retired following his departure from Juventus this summer but reversed his decision to seal the move.
After putting pen to paper, Szczesny revealed a phone call with Lewandowski which put the wheels in motion.
“He was the first person who called me to look into the possibility of this happening because I was retired,” Szczesny explained.
“At first I was not prepared for new challenges but I spoke to my family and friends and they all told me that it would be a mistake not to accept this. For this reason, Robert played a very important role because he was the person who had the idea to convince me.”
Further explaining his excitement towards joining Barcelona, Szczesny added: “It is a moment of utmost pride. I was honestly prepared to retire. I was happy in that situation but being here these first two days in the city and seeing how people have treated me and how important it is to them has made me feel proud and part of this exciting family.
“Although it is a great institution and a great football club, I have felt the feeling of family. Family is very important to me and now I have extended it a little.
“I’ve always been a fan. I can see the passion of the fans, it was very nice to see the game in the stadium, the team seems interesting. This challenge is exciting for me. I face it with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. I am ready to work hard and take on the challenges ahead this season.”
What we know
- Barcelona sign Szczesny to replace injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen
- Former Poland international came out of retirement to make move
- Lewandowski phone call key to transfer.