Szczesny backs Barcelona teammate to be best in the world

Barcelona are currently without starting goalkeeper Joan Garcia, although they have a capable backup in Wojciech Szczesny. The 35-year-old has yet to keep a clean sheet since returning to the line-up, although he has been in good form, as was shown by a number of big saves against Sevilla last weekend.

Despite this, Szczesny has recognised that he will be replaced upon Garcia’s return from injury, and it is something that he is very comfortable with. Speaking on Què t’hi jugues (via MD), he spoke very highly of the Barcelona number 13, whom he expects to keep getting better and better.

“He will probably end up being the best goalkeeper in the world, he has incredible potential, and just to feel that I can be part of the growth process of this exceptional talent, I will be satisfied.

“I discovered Joan last season at Espanyol and he already made a great impression on me, but after three days of watching him train at Barcelona I knew that I could help him grow. Probably, Joan will end up being the best goalkeeper in the world, I’m not saying that he is now, and if I can help him in some way I will feel great satisfaction.”

Szczesny will continue mentoring Garcia until 2027

As far as mentors go, Szczesny will surely prove to an excellent one for Garcia, given the experience he has garnered playing for a number of top clubs across Europe, such as Arsenal, Roma and Juventus. And given that the Polish goalkeeper signed a two-year deal in the summer, he can continue helping his fellow stopper until the end of the 2026-27 season at least.

Barcelona are hoping to have Garcia back for El Clasico, although that seems to be more of a hope than expectation. It means that Szczesny will likely face Real Madrid, although he does have a 100% record against them from last season.