With David Ospina now Arsenal’s official number one (so it seems, any way), Wojciech Szczesny must be desperately attempting to claw his way back into the first team. I can’t help but wonder what the atmosphere’s currently like in The Gunners’ training sessions. Do the two keepers get on? Could a healthy rivalry be forming?
When Ospina was asked by a journalist if he could ever be friends with Wojciech Szczesny, he paused for a moment and then responded as follows:
‘Good question. Unfortunately for us goalkeepers, that’s just the way it is. At the end of the day each of us is fighting to get that one spot. The rest of the players have got more possibilities of playing. But we do maintain a good relationship and we have to in the training sessions because otherwise it becomes difficult for the team and for the coach.’ (Source: The Metro)
It’s a well known fact that being a back-up goalkeeper is one of the most frustrating positions in football. Everybody wants to play. Nobody likes to sit on the bench week-in and week-out. It’s draining (in a mental sense, not a physical sense).
What’s more, when you’re called upon, you’re expected to find your groove immediately. As a goalkeeper, there’s simply no room for error, whether you’re a first choice or second choice option. It’s a difficult job. At least it’s relatively well paid!
As such, I can understand why Wojciech Szczesny might resent David Ospina, or at the very least, not be inclined to have brunch with him. In turn, if Szczesny wins his place back in the team, I’m sure Ospina will feel the same way.
I’m reminded of Jens Lehmann’s reaction to being dropped from Arsenal’s number one slot. It clearly hurts. What matters is how you react when given the opportunity to prove your character. Szczesny’s smoking exploits have set him off to a bad start, but it’s not over for him yet.
I’m interested to see how this little mini-rivalry plays out.
What’s your take? Who’s going to be Arsenal’s long-term number one?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.