Szczesny announced his retirement after mutually terminating his contract with Juventus ahead of schedule last season. However, due to injuries, Barcelona swooped in for the shot stopper who is now thriving in La Liga.
The Polish star has spoken this week about his transition to Barcelona where he met up with national teammate Lewandowski, who had some playful banter with the goalkeeper.
Speaking to GQ Poland, Szczesny revealed how the striker poked fun at him over his body, which he admits has never been in top shape.
“Footballers aren't allowed to gain weight. Their contracts include severe financial penalties. I like to eat, and although I manage to stay within the weight limit, I broke Barcelona's body fat record. Once, ‘Robert Lewandowski,’ mocking me in the Polish national team's dressing room, said: ‘How could Szczesny have had such a career with that body?’”
“I've never been a player who trained harder than others, but I've managed to maintain the same high level throughout my 18-year career.
“I may never have been in the top ten, but I've never dropped below eighth either. If I had played at my absolute best, I would have alternated between tens and sixes, but I maintained eights the whole time.”
The goalkeeper spoke more on his move to Barcelona, where he revealed that he was paid a dismal amount by the club, who are well known for their financial restraints.
“I played my first season for free. The amount I received from Barcelona was exactly what I had to pay back to Juve for ending my contract early.”