Wojciech Szczesny, the experienced goalkeeper who came out of retirement to join Barcelona this season, is currently facing an unusual dilemma — one that doesn’t involve football tactics or contracts, but rather his wife’s approval.
The 35-year-old Polish shot-stopper received a lucrative offer from Barcelona to extend his stay after helping the club to a domestic treble this season. Szczesny himself is open to continuing, but the final decision rests with his wife, Marina Luczenko-Szczesna.
Following Barcelona’s match against Real Madrid, Szczesny hinted at the situation while speaking to Catalan media:
“Most of the big decisions in our household are made by my wife, and I’m not ashamed to admit that. I usually make the football-related choices, but this situation is different. We had planned to come here for one year, fulfill a dream, and then return to focus on our life, including golf.”
His wife’s considerations, especially regarding their children’s education and where the family wants to settle, are currently the key factors delaying a final answer. Barcelona’s management and fans are also on standby, as the club’s transfer market strategy hinges on whether Szczesny stays for the upcoming season.
Szczesny joined Barcelona last October following a long-term ACL injury to first-choice keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Initially brought in as backup to Inaki Peña, Szczesny eventually became the starting goalkeeper from January onwards. His contract was only valid through the end of the current season.
After a series of impressive performances, Barcelona offered him a new two-year deal. Szczesny, however, requested time to discuss the decision with his family. The club has respected his wish and is awaiting a response.
In the meantime, Barcelona has initiated talks with Espanyol’s Juan García as a potential option. If Szczesny declines the offer, García could be signed as a long-term solution. If Szczesny does stay, García may be brought in and loaned out for a year of development.
For now, the future of Barcelona’s goalkeeping situation is in the hands of one woman — Marina Szczesna.
