In a shocking turn of events, former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has ended his retirement and signed with Barcelona until the end of the season.
The Catalan giants were left scrambling for a replacement after first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen suffered a serious knee injury in their 5-1 win over Villarreal last month.
La Liga rules permit clubs to sign free agents outside the transfer window if a player is injured for more than four months, paving the way for Szczesny’s surprise return.
The 34-year-old Polish goalkeeper made 181 appearances for Arsenal. Then went on to spend time at Brentford, Roma, and Juventus. He won three Serie A titles and three Coppas Italia with Juventus. On the international front, he earned 84 caps for Poland, playing in four European Championships and two World Cups.
Szczesny announced his retirement on August 27, 2024, citing a lack of desire to continue playing. However, the opportunity to join Barcelona has lured him back onto the pitch.
Szczesny could make his Barcelona debut against Alaves in La Liga on Sunday.
