Wojciech Szczesny called it a career earlier this summer a few weeks after getting released from Juventus. That’s not necessarily how he planned things to go, though, as he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“These seven seasons have been a tough personal challenge. When you get the opportunity of a lifetime and do so well, it’s a beautiful sensation. I would have liked to help the team this year too, but it wasn’t up to me. I didn’t expect nor I would have never imagined to no longer be part of the project.”
Szczesny wanted to stay for one extra campaign at Juventus.
“I spoke candidly with Cristiano Giuntoli at the beginning of last season when we needed to discuss my extension. We sat down for three minutes. I told him that I would retire in 2025. Afterward, I started reading reports about Michele Di Gregorio. I esteem him, and I could see a scenario where Mattia Perin wanted to leave, and he’d be my backup. I was convinced I would continue in Turin.”
Szczesny came to terms amicably with Juventus in the end.
“When they signed my replacement, we started talking about a contract termination. It was a choice by the club, which I didn’t share but accepted. I felt like I still had a lot to give. However, I wasn’t ready for other challenges after leaving the Bianconeri. I’ve no ill will toward Giuntoli. I respect the management, and vice versa. I’ll remain a fan. I don’t like farewells. Maybe I’ll have one final game with the national team. We’re evaluating whether I could say goodbye to the fans at the Stadium.”
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