Barcelona veteran decides to renew contract; talks underway over 1+1 formula | OneFootball

Wojciech Szczesny has proven to be a fine addition to the ranks at FC Barcelona. Having arrived only as an emergency reinforcement in early October following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury and has claimed the starting spot for himself ahead of Inaki Pena.

Naturally, talks over extending his stay at the club beyond the ongoing season, when his current expires, have been doing the rounds.

Barcelona want to keep Szczesny and the goalkeeper has also dropped hints that he plans on continuing, despite having announced his retirement last summer.

Szczesny decides to renew

Now, according to journalist Adria Albets, Szczesny has decided that he wants to stay at Barcelona next season and is ready to renew his contract.

In fact, all indications suggest that both parties will soon reach an agreement to extend his contract.

The most likely formula is a 1+1 deal – one guaranteed season plus an optional second year – which has already been discussed between the club and the player’s representatives.

While further talks are needed to finalise the agreement, there is a strong sense that both sides are on the same page.

FLick is very happy with Szczesny. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

The relationship between Szczesny and the club has been excellent from the start. The goalkeeper feels he has integrated well into the dressing room and is very happy with his life in Barcelona.

For his part, head coach Hansi Flick is delighted with Szczesny’s performance, his commitment to getting back in shape after retirement, and his positive relationship with the squad – particularly with the younger players.

Beyond his contributions on the pitch, Szczesny has been a hit in the dressing room. Young stars such as Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, and Pau Cubarsi have formed a strong bond with him, something Flick values greatly.

How will the goalkeeping department look like?

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has recently returned to light training on the pitch, with positive progress. However, in the meantime, Szczesny has firmly established himself as Barcelona’s number one under Flick.

The current plan is for Ter Stegen and Szczesny to share goalkeeping duties next season. In theory, the German ace, as captain, would have the edge to be the starter. However, much will depend on his form after a lengthy period of inactivity.

Szczesny has made a strong case to retain his place. He has kept eight clean sheets so far and moreover, with him in goal, Barça remain unbeaten, recording 14 wins and two draws.

As things stand, Szczesny’s renewal seems imminent, with both player and club eager to continue what has been a highly successful partnership.