Former Arsenal and Juventus Goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny made a surprising announcement by retiring from football at the age of 34. Szczesny had his Juventus contract terminated at the end of last season and has now declared his retirement from the sport. The former Poland international spent eight years at Arsenal, which included loan spells with Brentford and Roma, before heading to Juventus in 2017. During his time in Italy, he accumulated seven years of experience and also earned 84 international caps.
The football world was taken aback by the news of Szczesny’s retirement, especially considering that he was reportedly in talks over a move to Saudi Arabia with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr. This move could have potentially earned him up to £16 million ($20m) per season, but he has instead chosen to hang up his boots. It’s clear that Szczesny’s decision was not solely based on financial gains, indicating a deeper motivation behind his retirement.
Szczesny wrote on Instagram: “I left Warsaw, my hometown in June of 2006 to join Arsenal with one dream – to make a living out of football. Little did I know it would be a start of a journey of a lifitime. Little did I know that I would get to play for the biggest clubs in the world and represent my country 84 times.
“Little did I know that not only would I make a living out of the game but the game would become my whole life. I didn’t just realise my dreams, I’ve arrived where my imagination wouldn’t even dare to take me. I played the game at the highest level with the best players in history without ever feeling inferior. I’ve made friends for life, created unforgetable memories and met people who have made an incredible impact on my life. Everything that I have and everything that I am I owe to the beautiful game of football… But I also gave the game all I had. I gave the game 18 years of my life, everyday, without excuses.
“Today, though my body still feels ready for challenges, my heart is not there anymore. I feel that right now it is time to give all of my attention to my family – my amazing wife Marina and our two beautiful children Liam and Noelia. Therefore I have decided to retire from professional football. A journey’s end is a time for reflection and gratitude.
“There’s a lot of people that I would have to thank in this spot but I will try to that personally with each one of them. But to you – the fans I owe a special thank you for being on this journey with me. For the support and criticism, for the love and hate, for being the most beautiful and romantic part of football. Without you non of this would make any sense! Thank you!
“Now, every story has an end but in life every ending is a new beggining. What this new path will bring for me only the time will tell. But if the last 18 years have taught me anything it is that nothing is impossible and believe me, I’m going to dream BIG!”
As Szczesny steps away from the pitch, many wonder what the future holds for him. While he may eventually transition into management or coaching, his recent statement suggests that he may take some time away from the game. Having made his debut in 2009 for the Gunners, he has been a prominent figure in the world of football for 15 years. His contributions to the sport and the experiences gained throughout his career have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the football community.
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