A 86th-minute substitution during a 2014 Champions League qualifying match against Celtic F.C. altered the trajectory of Bartosz Bereszyński's career when an administrative error invalidated his appearance. Born in Poznań on 12 July 1992, the Polish defender has navigated an extensive professional journey across domestic Ekstraklasa leagues and top-tier Italian football competitions.
Early Career and Domestic Rivalries
Bereszyński spent his formative years playing youth football for various Poznań-based clubs, including TPS Winogrady, Poznaniak, Warta, and Lech. Upon transitioning to the senior level, he represented Lech Poznań and Warta Poznań before his move to Legia Warsaw. This transfer between rivals caused significant friction with supporters, who labeled him with a derogatory nickname. During his time at Legia, he secured multiple Ekstraklasa titles and Polish Cup victories, ultimately being recognized as the league's Discovery of the Season for 2012–13.
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The defender's tenure at Legia Warsaw was marked by a notable disciplinary incident in the 2013–14 UEFA Europa League. After receiving a suspension, a failure to correctly register him for the squad ahead of Champions League qualification matches led to a retroactive 3–0 loss assigned by UEFA.
Italian Campaigns and Return to Poland
In January 2017, Bereszyński signed a four-year contract with the Italian club Sampdoria. His time in Italy included a loan spell at Napoli during the 2022–23 season, where he contributed to the team's Serie A title run. Following Sampdoria's relegation to Serie B and subsequent loan stints at Empoli and a brief period with Palermo in 2025, he returned to the Polish Ekstraklasa. On 3 July 2026, he finalized a two-year deal with Motor Lublin.
National Team Representation
International service for Bereszyński began within the Polish youth system, spanning under-19, under-20, and under-21 squads. His senior debut occurred on 4 June 2013 against Liechtenstein. Throughout his career, he has been selected for numerous major tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, UEFA Euro 2020, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2024.
Fast facts
- Born: 12 July 1992, Poznań
- Professional debut: 2013
- Key position: Right-back
- Italian clubs: Sampdoria, Napoli, Empoli, Palermo
- Serie A title: 2022–23
- Father: Przemysław Bereszyński
- COVID-19 diagnosis: 14 March 2020
Questions readers ask
Which clubs has Bartosz Bereszyński played for in Italy?
He has played for Sampdoria, Napoli, Empoli, and Palermo.
Did he play in the 2018 FIFA World Cup?
Yes, he was named in Poland's squad for the 2018 tournament in Russia.
