Ex-Arsenal Goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny Retires From Football At 34

Former Arsenal and Juventus goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34.

Wojciech Szczesny started his football journey when he joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of 16 in 2006, where he went on to make 181 appearances for the Gunners.

In 2017, Szczesny decided to move to Juventus and he enjoyed a successful tenure, making 252 appearances and clinching eight major trophies, including three Serie A titles, before being released at the end of the 2023-2024 season.

During his time at Arsenal, the goalkeeper lifted two FA Cups and the 2014 Community Shield. His football journey also included a brief loan spell at Brentford in 2009-10 and a fruitful two-season loan stint at AS Roma.

Wojciech Szczesny represented the Polish national team and made 84 appearances for the country before he lost his place in the team. He played in four European Championships and two World Cups for Poland.

Reflecting on his career, Szczesny shared a heartfelt message on social media, expressing gratitude for realizing his dreams and surpassing his wildest imagination in the world of football.

He emphasized the profound impact the game had on his life, acknowledging the invaluable friendships, enduring memories, and influential individuals he encountered throughout his career.

Szczesny said: “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 unforgettable 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.”

He added, “I gave the game 18 years of my life, every day, 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.”