“I’m sure everyone at Barcelona will try to destroy their tradition” - Wojciech Szczesny on Real Madrid being favorites to win Champions League

New Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has stated that his team will aim to derail rivals Real Madrid from winning the UEFA Champions League this season. The Polish goalkeeper signed a one-year deal with the Spanish outfit as an emergency replacement following an injury to Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

The Poland international retired from professional football at the end of Euro 2024 after reaching an agreement with Juventus to terminate his contract. The 34-year-old goalkeeper had been keen on a move to the Saudi Pro League in the summer but his move to Al-Nassr fell through.

Szczesny spoke with Mundo Deportivo about the dominance of Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League over the years. He stated that he and his Barcelona teammates will aim to ensure that Los Blancos do not succeed in the competition this year, saying:

“Real Madrid favorites for the UCL? They’re one of those teams that play in all competitions to win and I’m sure everyone at Barça will try to destroy their tradition and win the trophies.”

Real Madrid and Barcelona have both begun the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League season in shaky form. Los Blancos started with a win over Stuttgart before losing to Ligue 1 outfit Lille while Hansi Flick's side lost to Monaco and defeated Young Boys.

Wojciech Szczesny was on holiday with his family when the call from Barcelona came in. Having watched his new side defeat Alaves last weekend, the former Arsenal man is training at the club's headquarters ahead of a possible debut after the international break.

Real Madrid ace set to be fit to face Barcelona this month - Reports

Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz is set to return to action for Los Blancos when they face rivals Barcelona in El Clasico on October 26. The Morocco international has been out injured since September, having picked up an adductor problem.

AS reports that Diaz was spotted training on the grass in recent days, indicating that he could be prepared to return to action soon. Manager Carlo Ancelotti may choose to play the 25-year-old against Borussia Dortmund on October 22nd to help him build his fitness, according to the report.

The return of Diaz will be a welcome boost for Ancelotti and his side ahead of El Clasico, seeing as they have struggled with injuries this season.

The top-of-the-table clash between the sides will provide an early marker into how the season may end, as three points separate La Blaugrana in first from Los Blancos in second.