Former Juventus and Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has called time on his career as a professional footballer, Afrosport reports.
The 34-year-old, who announced his retirement via social media on Tuesday, was recently released by Juventus as the Old Lady continues to rebuild under Thiago Motta’s leadership.
Szczesny started his senior career at Arsenal, having passed through the club’s renowned Hale End Academy. He made his professional debut for the Gunners in 2009 before enjoying loan spells at Brentford (2009-10) and Roma (2015-17).
The Polish shot-stopper played 181 times for the Gunners, winning two English Football League (EFL) titles and a Community Shield.
He joined Juve in 2017 at the age of 27 and played 252 matches for the Old Lady, keeping 103 clean sheets in the process as well as winning eight major trophies, including three Serie A titles and three Coppa Italia titles.
Szczesny made his international debut for Poland in 2009, and the Warsaw native managed 84 caps for the national team, playing at two FIFA World Cups and four European Championships.
The goalkeeper announced his retirement on Tuesday on social media, adding that although he “realised his dreams and his body is up to the challenge, his heart is not there anymore.”
The post read: “I didn’t just realise my dreams, I’ve arrived where my imagination wouldn’t even dare to take me.
“I played the game at the highest level with the best players in history without ever feeling inferior.
“I’ve made friends for life, created unforgettable memories and met people who have made an incredible impact on my life. Everything that I have and everything that I am I owe to the beautiful game of football.”
“I gave the game 18 years of my life, every day, without excuses,” said Szczesny.
“Today, though my body still feels ready for challenges, my heart is not there anymore. I feel that right now it is time to give all of my attention to my family.”
