Wojciech Szczesny reflected on his career, the initial approach from Juventus and the importance of the Europa League semi-final with Sevilla.
The 33-year-old Polish goalkeeper has been the Bianconeri’s number one following the departure of Gianluigi Buffon, and he’s proven himself a reliable and consistent shot stopper for the Old Lady.
Contracted to Juventus until June 2024, Szczesny has continued to be a starter for the club but is expected to take a step back in the coming years, pushing the club to start considering long-term replacements.
Speaking in an interview on Juventus’ twitch channel via Calciomercato.com, Szczesny was first asked about his favourite goalkeeper and favourite save of his career.
“Perin, my most beautiful save was the double one on the penalty kick at the World Cup with Poland.”
He touched on which of his teammates he wouldn’t like to fight.
“Kostic, I would never like to face him, when he shoots in training, he kicks very hard. Gatti I would never want to face because I would beat him but especially Paredes because he starts fights!”
The Polish shot stopper touched on his relationships with Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes.
“I lost against them after saving Messi’s penalty. It was nice to see them again at Juve, I was very happy because when you go out you support your teammates, I watched Rabiot, Lea Paredes, Angel. I also wanted Argentina to win for Paulo Dybala, I was very happy.”
He revealed that he wasn’t always keen on the idea of becoming a goalkeeper.
“I wanted to be a striker but I sucked. I liked playing football, but I was taller and they put me in goal. At the first good save I didn’t want to go back into attack.
“Actually, I would still like to be a striker now, but when you’re young you realise you’re better at something than others, it’s a good feeling, you feel strong, it gives you confidence, self-esteem, I did it because it was the only thing I knew how to do well.”
Szczesny was asked about Juventus’ initial approach for him back in 2017.
“I don’t remember. I had a year’s contract with Arsenal, then a year at Roma on loan and we were talking about possible destinations. When I heard from Juve I said here I am.”
Finally, Szczesny discussed the importance of Juventus’ Europa League semi-final clash with Sevilla.
“Positive feelings, especially for that goal in the 96th minute, which is fundamental for the energy and enthusiasm we have towards the return leg.
“The most important game of the year, the only trophy available and it’s great. We want to the final in Budapest.”