Chesney Admits to Smoking Addiction

Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny (36) has confessed to his addiction to smoking, stating that he has no plans to fight this habit despite being fully aware of its dangers, in an extensive interview with The Athletic.

The Polish goalkeeper stated: "Smoking is terrible, and I wouldn't advise anyone to start. It's a weakness of mine, but it's an addiction I'm not ready to fight. I accept it, and maybe that's what makes people see me as an honest person."

Wojciech Szczęsny added that fans know the truth about his addiction, stating that he does not try to hide it: "Many players have different types of addiction, whether it's nicotine, alcohol, or gambling, but I speak about it openly. People might empathize with that because it's a reality many live."

He also clarified that the song chanted by Barcelona fans in his name, despite its association with smoking, makes him very happy, saying: "For the first time in my career, I have a special chant from the fans, and I enjoy it, even if it doesn't seem professional to some."

Reflecting on his experience with Barcelona, Szczęsny stated that when he received the club's offer after his retirement, he promised himself to enjoy every moment. "I feel like one of the fans inside the stadium. I consider this phase a gift in my career, and I have fallen in love with this place and FC Barcelona, and I feel the love that the fans give me."