Former Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny has come out of retirement to join FC Barcelona, stepping in as the team needed a goalkeeper following an injury to their starter, Marc-André ter Stegen.
The veteran goalkeeper signed a short-term contract that runs until June 30, 2025. Moreover, Szczesny will earn approximately €3 million gross during his time with the Catalans until the end of the season, per SPORT.
A few days ago, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that it was Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski who played a vital role in getting his former teammate on Poland's national team to come out of retirement.
“When Barcelona called and when Robert Lewandowski called – because Lewandowski was also a factor – calling him and telling him about the project they have at Barcelona for the season and the feeling the players have with Hansi Flick, Szczesny decided to say yes.
Robert Lewandowski breaks silence on Wojciech Szczęsny
The Barcelona star is currently with the Polish national team and of course, the media in the country wants to ask about him teaming up again with Szczęsny. Lewandowski noted that it was only Barcelona or bust that would get him to come out of retirement.
"Before leaving Juventus and retiring, he told me that he would only keep playing if Barcelona reached out to him," Lewandowski said (h/t TuttoJuve). "During his time off, he’s regained his freshness, and he’ll only need about two weeks of training to get back in shape. He seems calm and relaxed.
"I’m confident he’ll make a great contribution to the team. When a new player joins, it’s important for them to get familiar with the club’s environment. The same applies to Wojciech, but with his experience and outlook on life, I’m sure he’ll adapt quickly."
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