Frank Christian
Wojciech Szczesny, the new goalkeeper for Barcelona, will not be rejoining the Poland national team this season.
His move to Barcelona was prompted by a significant injury to the team captain, Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Szczesny’s current focus is entirely on his responsibilities in Catalonia.
Barcelona has signed Szczesny on a short-term deal that runs until the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, utilizing La Liga rules that allow for an emergency transfer due to Ter Stegen’s unavailability.
National team coach Hansi Flick has indicated that Szczesny won’t automatically take Ter Stegen’s place, as Inaki Pena is the current backup option.
Nevertheless, there are widespread speculations that Barcelona has made certain commitments to Szczesny to encourage him to come out of retirement.
Szczesny received recognition for his service to the Poland team before their 3-1 UEFA Nations League loss to Portugal, holding the record for the most international caps (84) for a Polish goalkeeper.
According to Marca, the prospect of Szczesny ending his international hiatus alongside his club comeback has been dismissed, as he prepares to compete with Pena for the starting position at Barcelona.
When will Wojciech Szczesny make his debut for Barcelona?
Szczesny has been officially registered as a player for Barcelona in La Liga, making him eligible for participation in the UEFA Champions League.
Flick stated that the 34-year-old will continue following a tailored fitness regimen throughout the ongoing international break.
Barcelona currently holds a three-point lead in La Liga and is set to host Sevilla on October 20, but it appears that Pena will maintain his starting position for their upcoming crucial matches against Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
There may be an opportunity for Flick to introduce Szczesny during European competition, possibly against Red Star Belgrade on November 6.
