Wojciech Szczesny admits Roma made him “a better goalkeeper” and he’s happy to extend his stay, but still wants Arsenal eventually.

The shot-stopper is about to complete his debut Serie A season with the Giallorossi fighting Napoli for second place.

“It was a challenge, because after spending so many years in London I’ve grown attached to it. I have an apartment there and most of my friends are there so it was tough at the beginning,” the Poland international told FourFourTwo.

Wojciech Szczesny admits Roma made him “a better goalkeeper” and he’s happy to extend his stay, but still wants Arsenal eventually.

The shot-stopper is about to complete his debut Serie A season with the Giallorossi fighting Napoli for second place.

“It was a challenge, because after spending so many years in London I’ve grown attached to it. I have an apartment there and most of my friends are there so it was tough at the beginning,” the Poland international told FourFourTwo.

“But I’m not a kid and certainly don't act like one, so I also took is as a great opportunity to develop and learn something.

“After a difficult last season it was a chance for a fresh start – I definitely needed to rebuild my career.

“I also went to Rome to become a better goalkeeper, so that when I go back to Arsenal, I can compete for the number one jersey and win it back.”

Szczesny took the opportunity to clarify he never said he wanted to leave Arsenal for good.

“I didn't mean it as a permanent transfer, but another one-year loan – sure. That would be probably the best option for both sides.

“I’m not sure if that’s what the clubs are discussing at the moment, but it makes perfect sense. I definitely like to be on the pitch every week, have that continuity of games played throughout the season. Roma is a good fit for me.

“In some aspects it’s easier (to be a goalkeeper in Serie A), but it’s also difficult from a different standpoint. It’s easier to play in front of the goal as keepers are practically untouchable and protected in that area. When you go to get the ball any knock or push on you is called a foul, so it’s easier to make that decision.

“Serie A is more difficult by being more tactical. There is more pressure on every player to execute a tactical plan. That also includes the keeper and how he needs to direct his defensive formation, keeping them organised in a specific way.
“For me it’s a very positive change, because it has helped me grow and learn a lot. I’m definitely a more versatile and complete player then I was a year ago.

“The weather is much better here and people seem to smile a lot more. But London is London – it’s my town and I will always love it.”

Szczesny is eager to remain for one more season to see what Luciano Spalletti can do in Serie A and the Champions League.

“We weren't ready for the championship title yet. With Juventus winning 24 out of their last 25 games, it’s hard to compete with that. In that perspective we’ve hardly have a chance.

“I believe we have very good organisation within the club and a strong enough squad to compete next year. There’s definitely ambition among the Roma players to try to win it all.”

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