Barcelona Gears Up for Champions League Decider as Puyol Urges Szczesny’s Contract Renewal
Barcelona is preparing for a crucial Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash against Benfica, having secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg in Portugal. Their recent La Liga match against Osasuna was postponed following the tragic passing of the team’s doctor just hours before kickoff.
Club legend Carles Puyol has made a strong appeal to coach Hansi Flick and president Joan Laporta, urging them to extend the contract of Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny immediately. Speaking to Cadena Ser, Puyol praised Szczesny’s outstanding performances, calling him a key figure in the team’s success.
“He deserves to stay at Barça and will make history. Renew his contract now,” Puyol stated, emphasizing the goalkeeper’s impact. Szczesny has been instrumental in Barcelona’s recent form, particularly in the first leg against Benfica, where he made eight crucial saves to secure the win.
Following that performance, Szczesny confidently declared, “My best match is yet to come,” signaling his ambition to help Barcelona advance further in the competition. As the decisive second leg approaches on March 11, the Polish shot-stopper will be a vital factor in Barcelona’s quest for Champions League glory.