Wojciech Szczesny, Barcelona’s goalkeeper, spoke to reporters ahead of the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund. In the press conference, he discussed competing with Marc-André ter Stegen, the possibility of a contract extension, his experience in big competitions, meditation, the moment he signed with Barcelona, fan support, comparisons with ter Stegen, his personality, Robert Lewandowski, and his relationship with ter Stegen.

At the start of the press conference, he was asked about competing with ter Stegen and replied: “You don’t even give me a choice! (laughs) I’m here to take Marc’s place, but obviously, I want to play in this competition. However, if the coach decides to make a change, I respect his decision.”

Contract extension?

It’s not something I think about much. I have a contract until the end of the season, and I want to focus on the games. I don’t want to waste energy on contract issues or my future. I want to give my best for the club.

Experience in big competitions?

This is a big game for the team and for me. We’re all in the same boat, and we all want to perform at our best. We’ve faced very strong teams, and we’ll do the same tomorrow. We shouldn’t think about the possibility of defeat.

Helping younger players?

As you get older, you manage pressure differently. Younger players are more passionate and energetic, but I stay calmer. My teammates aren’t as good as I am at helping them, but with my approach, I try to help them stay composed.

Champions League dream?

I love winning trophies. A few months ago, I was on the beach, and now I’m playing for one of the best teams in Europe. Winning is what I love most. It was impossible for me to imagine winning such important competitions after retirement. I’m getting closer to winning the Champions League, which is my dream.

Meditation?

It’s a bit long to explain. I started meditating in Italy, and it really helps my daily life. It’s something I recommend to all professionals. I think footballers can improve a lot if they learn to manage pressure, and meditation helps you stay calm.

The moment he signed with Barcelona?

Honestly, I was playing golf with my son. The truth is, I had received a few hints before that moment. It was strange for me because they don’t usually call many players in that situation. It was very strange.

Fan support?

The truth is, these things can happen very quickly. If you play well, the fans love you more. But I’m very happy.

Comparison with ter Stegen?

Marc is at a very high level, and comparisons are useless. He’s coming back from a very serious injury, and the truth is, when he fully recovers, there will be few goalkeepers at his level.

Personality?

The truth is, it’s hard for me to explain how funny I am. I just try to be myself and act naturally. Robert Lewandowski helped me a lot in the first few weeks after my arrival to settle in. In those weeks, Iñaki Peña also helped me, and I was completely calm. They probably think I’m a normal guy.

Lewandowski?

The first contact I had was from Robert. As I said before, he helped me and my family a lot. I was very lucky to be able to work with him and with a group that helped me so much. It was hard for me because I had to change my mindset again, but he really supported me and made the transition very easy.

Relationship with ter Stegen?

Right now, Marc is only focused on returning to training, and he doesn’t need to think like that. We understand the situation very well, and there’s no tension between us. Whatever happens, we understand and respect it. Both of us want the best for the team.