FC Barcelona didn't want to fail in the goalkeeper position after Ter Stegen's serious injury. It was clear that it was necessary to make a high-level signing to compete with Iñaki Peña throughout the season, but there were several options on the table. Finally, the chosen one ended up being Szczęsny, although the truth is that another player seemed to be ahead.
Tomas Vaclik has spoken in statements to TVP Sport. The former Sevilla player was on Barça's list to strengthen the goalkeeping position and even held talks with the club. "I was following this situation all the time because I was also considered for a transfer to Barcelona as a replacement for Ter Stegen. In the end, they chose Szczęsny," he indicated.
In this regard, Tomas Vaclik continued: "Szczęsny was for many years the number one at Juventus and one of the best goalkeepers in Europe. Suddenly they told him he was no longer part of the project, he decided to retire and was on vacation in Marbella."
Tomas Vaclik, the Goalkeeper Joan Laporta Wanted for Barça
At 35 years old, Tomas Vaclik found himself in a situation similar to Szczęsny's. Unemployed, free of contract... but eager to find a new destination. The Czech has extensive experience in Europe, especially in Spain, where he wore Sevilla's jersey.
He is someone who, due to his qualities, fit in at Barça, but always as a secondary plan. Tomas Vaclik was an option that was liked as a plan B to Szczęsny, in case he decided to remain retired. He had the approval of president Joan Laporta, who was impressed by his time in LaLiga.
In any case, nothing was discussed or even remotely advanced. He was on the list, but always as a secondary option to Szczęsny.
Szczęsny's Mess against Benfica
The mistakes of Szczęsny affected the match against Benfica and made it very difficult for Barça to win in the cursed stadium. Flick took a gamble by leaving Iñaki Peña on the bench, betting on experience, but Szczęsny offered the image of a rookie and inexperienced goalkeeper.
In any case, what is clear is that the Pole will finish the season at Barça and then decide whether to retire again or continue. The option of Tomas Vaclik is now completely ruled out, despite being seriously considered with Joan Laporta at the helm.