Polish
Legendary goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, in an exclusive interview with the Dzień Dobry TVN program, gave an insight into his journey to retirement and why he insisted on choosing to hang up his boots in the face of offers from giants such as Arsenal.
Szczesny revealed that he had originally planned to end his career in 2025, when his contract with Juventus expired. However, due to personal satisfaction with the status quo and prudent consideration of future challenges, he terminated his contract with Juventus ahead of schedule and officially announced his retirement shortly afterward. He confessed that he was no longer eager to face new competitive challenges and did not want to cause unnecessary disruption to his family due to his career change.
"I am very satisfied with my current life, soccer is no longer a necessity for my happiness." Szczesny's words reveal a cherished family life and contentment with the status quo. He explained that the decision to retire was not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but rather the result of much deliberation. He realized that as he grew older and his family responsibilities increased, he could no longer devote himself to soccer as he did when he was young.
Before announcing his retirement, Szczesny also asked his son for his opinion. When he learned that his son Liam would not be saddened by his retirement, but instead looked forward to spending more time with his family, he was even more determined in his decision. Szczesny said that the support and understanding of his family was an important motivation for him to make this important decision.
Szczesny also gave a clear response to the speculations and expectations about his possible comeback. He emphasized that he will not change his mind and choose to make a comeback because now he has found his own happiness and satisfaction. He confessed that while making a lot of money and realizing his self-worth is great, playing football purely for the sake of money does not excite him. He enjoys more the time he spends with his family and the peaceful and fulfilling state of life he is in now.
In addition, Szczesny also revealed his wife Marina's attitude towards his decision to retire. Although initially a little uncomfortable with the change of pace of life brought about by her husband's sudden cessation of work, over time she has come to understand Szczesny's choice and has given her full support.
