Szczęsny Admits Longstanding Smoking Addiction and Says He Will Not Quit

Overview

• Wojciech Szczęsny told The Athletic on Saturday that he has a long-running nicotine addiction he calls "terrible" and that he is "not willing to fight" it.
• He said the habit is an unprofessional weakness he accepts rather than hides and that his openness helps fans relate to him.
• Supporters have adopted a "smoker" chant for him and he even wore a hat labeled "smoker" during a recent trophy parade, gestures he says underline his authenticity.
• Szczęsny remains under contract with FC Barcelona through June 2027 and was a backup last season with limited appearances while preparing to compete with first-choice keeper Joan Garcia.
• Coverage notes health and professional concerns about smoking, and the admission could shape public perception of his fitness and selection prospects as the new season approaches.