Szczesny speaks on Juventus departure

Wojciech Szczesny, who recently retired from professional football, shared his thoughts on his departure from Juventus during an interview on Luca Toselli’s YouTube channel.

The former goalkeeper, who ended his Juventus career with the Coppa Italia victory on May 15, 2024, reflected on his time at the club and his unexpected exit.

Szczesny described his seven seasons with Juventus as a challenging yet rewarding experience. “These seven seasons have been a personal challenge,” he said.

“When you have the opportunity of a lifetime and perform so well, it’s an incredible feeling. I would have liked to help the team again this year, but that wasn’t up to me.”

The goalkeeper expressed his surprise at being excluded from the team’s plans. “I didn’t expect to be out of the project; I never imagined it,” Szczesny admitted.

He recounted a candid conversation with Juventus’ sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, at the start of the previous season regarding his contract renewal.

“We sat in a room for three minutes. I told him I would retire at the end of the 2024/25 season. Then, I began reading in the newspapers about the club’s negotiations with Di Gregorio.”

Szczesny spoke positively about Michele Di Gregorio, who joined Juventus from Monza. “I respect Di Gregorio. I could have imagined a scenario where Perin left and he was the second choice.

After last season, I was convinced I would stay. Hearing about the deal with the former Monza player was unexpected. When the deal was finalized, we discussed my departure. It was the club’s decision; I don’t agree with it, but I accept it.”

Despite his disagreement with the decision, Szczesny holds no grudges. “I would have liked to spend another year with Juventus because I felt I still had a lot to offer.

But after leaving Juventus, I wasn’t ready for new challenges. Although I don’t agree with the club’s choice, I hold no resentment towards Giuntoli. I respect the club, and they were respectful towards me over the summer. I will remain a Juventus fan.”

Szczesny expressed a desire to bid farewell properly. “I don’t like farewells. We’re discussing with the national team the possibility of playing one last match. I also hope to say goodbye to Juventus and the fans at the stadium. We’re considering this option.”