2Views
Wojciech Szczesny is ready to step aside for Marc-André ter Stegen as the main goalkeeper at FC Barcelona. The Polish player is committed to the team and has a good and respectful relationship with Ter Stegen.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Szczesny joined Barcelona in October 2024 when Ter Stegen suffered a serious knee injury. He smoothly became the starting goalkeeper. He has stated that he will accept whatever decision coach Hansi Flick makes about his role if Ter Stegen becomes fit. Szczesny said, “I’m here to replace ter Stegen and help Barça. If Flick decides to rely on ter Stegen, I will respect that.” He added that there is no tension between him and Ter Stegen, both aiming for the team’s success.
As the starting goalkeeper, Szczesny has been key to Barcelona’s success, helping them remain unbeaten in their last 24 matches in all competitions. He has kept nine clean sheets in 17 LaLiga games, helping Barcelona lead the league.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Since Szczesny’s arrival, Barcelona has improved a lot. They are leading LaLiga by four points, have reached the Copa del Rey final, and have a strong lead in the Champions League quarterfinal against Borussia Dortmund. But with Ter Stegen returning, there might be competition for the goalkeeper spot. Szczesny’s professionalism and impact have led to talks of a contract extension, which might keep him at the club longer.
Ter Stegen, who was Barcelona’s main goalkeeper, had surgery for a tendon injury in October and has been out since. He has started training again, which brings hope for Barcelona’s season as they aim for multiple trophies.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Barcelona will play Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarterfinal second leg to try and reach the semifinals. After that, they’ll continue their LaLiga campaign with an important match against Celta de Vigo. Barcelona leads Real Madrid by four points. Flick’s task is to manage the squad carefully in this crucial phase. For Szczesny, the priority is to keep performing well, whether he remains the starter or takes on a supporting role.
