Former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny departed Juventus earlier this summer, but has now made the shock decision to retire from football.
The 34-year-old has been a starter at Juventus since replacing the legendary Gianluigi Buffon in the 2018-19 season, having last played for Arsenal in 2015.
However, Szczesny terminated his contract with the Italian giants earlier this summer, and this fuelled speculation that he could return to Arsenal as a replacement for Aaron Ramsdale.
The former Poland International started for his Nation at Euro 2024, and showed that he is still capable of performing at a high level. However, Szczesny has now announced his retirement from the game.
This comes at a huge surprise, given that he is still relatively young compared to other goalkeepers, Szczesny he has explained that his decision has nothing to do with his ability or fitness.
Former Arsenal star Wojciech Szczesny explains his decision to retire from football
Taking to his Instagram account, Szczesny thanked his former clubs, and explained that he had lost a bit of passion for football, motivating his desire to leave the game.
“I left Warsaw, my hometown in June of 2006 to join Arsenal with one dream – to make a living out of football,” he posted.
“Little did I know it would be a start of a journey of a lifetime. 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, tough 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.”
Wojciech Szczesny thanks fans after announcing retirement
During his time at Arsenal, Szczesny was a popular figure amongst Arsenal fans, having spent time in the club’s academy, and he has now expressed his gratitude to the fans who used to support him.
“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,” he added.
“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 beginning. 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!”
Szczesny made 252 appearances for Juventus, and won three Serie A titles. His exploits with Poland saw him save a penalty from Lionel Messi at the World Cup, whilst he also won two FA Cups in his 181 Arsenal appearances.
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