Szczęsny clarifies the importance that Robert Lewandowski had for his arrival at FC Barcelona

The FC Barcelona has officially announced the arrival of Wojciech Szczęsny as their new goalkeeper. The Warsaw native has signed a contract with the Catalan club that will be valid until June 30, 2025, with the purpose of covering the extended absence of Marc-André ter Stegen, who is sidelined with a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee and will be out of action for an estimated period of seven to eight months.

Szczęsny, who now dons the colors of the Azulgrana team, has had the opportunity to share his first impressions as a member of the Catalan entity. During a meeting with the official Barça media, he expressed his pride and excitement in joining this prestigious institution and feeling embraced by the fans.

"It is a moment of utmost pride. Honestly, I was ready for retirement. I was content 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 sense of family. Family is very important to me and now I have extended it a bit," he affirmed.

The role of Robert Lewandowski in his arrival at FC Barcelona

Furthermore, the Polish goalkeeper explained why he decided to reverse his decision to retire, which he had recently made, and how much influence Robert Lewandowski had in this choice. "He was the first person to call me to explore the possibility of this happening because I was retired. At first, I wasn't prepared for new challenges, but I spoke with my family and friends and they all told me it would be a mistake not to accept this," he acknowledged.

"Robert played a very important role because he was the person who had the idea to convince me."

His admiration for Barcelona and the expectations he has for this new adventure as a Culé

Likewise, Szczęsny expressed his admiration for FC Barcelona and the performance he witnessed in the match against BSC Young Boys at Montjuïc, which he observed from the stands. "I have always been a fan. I can see the passion of the fans, it was very nice to see the match at the stadium, the team looks interesting," he remarked.

In conclusion, Szczęsny shared his expectations and enthusiasm for facing this new challenge at FC Barcelona. "This challenge excites me. I face it with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. I am ready to work hard and take on the challenges that come this season," he concluded.