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Wojciech Szczesny: “It is okay if ter Stegen takes my place at Barcelona”
Wojciech Szczesny has said he has no problem with Marc-André ter Stegen returning from injury to take his place at Barcelona. Szczesny believes it would be “completely normal” if ter Stegen returns to Barcelona and regains his spot as the No.1 goalkeeper and club captain.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The 34-year-old Polish shot-stopper was signed earlier in the season after the initial injury from Ter Stegen who would keep him away from the pitch for an extended time, and Barcelona would have to rely most of the season on the academy graduate Inaki Peña. Ter Stegen has been sidelined since September with a ruptured patellar tendon and has been working on his recovery, with a potential return expected as early as April or May. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League tie, Szczesny expressed his willingness to accept the coach’s decision if ter Stegen is reinstated as the team’s primary goalkeeper.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Szczesny’s signing was part of Barcelona’s efforts to manage ter Stegen’s prolonged absence, which forced the club to explore alternative options. Szczesny has contributed to the team, stepping into the starting role during a challenging period. With Barcelona likely to secure their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League, Szczesny might yet play a key role if ter Stegen’s recovery timeline changes or if he departs from the club in the summer transfer window.
Barcelona has won the Spanish Supercup, is in 1st place in La Liga, will play the Copa del Rey Final and is one of the teams playing in the Champions League quarter-finals.
WHAT NEXT?
While Szczesny is enjoying rare game time, he may return to the No.2 choice next season if ter Stegen fully recovers and signs a new contract with the club. For now, the team will continue to monitor ter Stegen’s progress and adjust their plans accordingly.
