Polish National Team Strikes a Snag: Robert Lewandowski Refuses to Play Under Coach Michal Probierz
Polish football star, Robert Lewandowski, refused to participate in the national team's activities.
In the face of a leadership shakeup, Polish national team star, Robert Lewandowski, has made the bold move to boycott the team. The 36-year-old powerhouse, who's scored 85 goals in 158 games, is riled up over the selection of Michal Probierz as the coach and has publicly called for his dismissal [1][2][3].
In a fiery social media post, Lewandowski voiced his discontent, stating that he would not step foot on the field while Probierz was in charge. This decision, as you might expect, has sent ripples through the Polish football community [1][2].
Lewandowski's absence was initially noticed during the ongoing World Cup qualifying window, having chosen to sit out due to a demanding season at Barcelona. Poland's games so far have seen victory against Lithuania (1:0) and Malta (2:0), with the next match against Finland approaching quickly [1].
Preceding Lewandowski's announcement, coach Probierz named Piotr Zielinski, not Lewandowski, as the new team captain [1]. In response, the Polish Football Association addressed the situation, stating that Probierz had informed both Lewandowski and the team about his decision [1].
Lewandowski will be hoping to lead his nation to the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. However, under the current circumstances, that prospect seems uncertain [1].
Coach Probierz's tenure has been a mixed bag, with Poland placing last in their group at the 2021 European Championship held in Germany. A 1:2 home defeat against Scotland in November also secured their relegation from League A of the Nations League [1].
- Robert Lewandowski
- Football
- International Match
The fallout from this controversial decision could reshape the Polish national team landscape. Only time will tell whether Lewandowski's boycott will spark a much-needed change or escalate tensions further [4].
Sources: ntv.de and tsi/dpa
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Background and Reason for Boycott
Robert Lewandowski's sudden departure from the Polish national team stems from a change in leadership and a loss of trust in Coach Michal Probierz. Specifically, Lewandowski was shocked and dismayed when he was removed as team captain and Piotr Zielinski was appointed to the role [1][2][3]. In a show of defiance, Lewandowski announced on social media that he would not play for the team while Probierz remained in charge [1][2].
Consequences for Coach Michal Probierz
While some members of the Polish football community have criticized Lewandowski's move, others have remained hopeful for change under Probierz's leadership. Some segments within the national team and its supporters might be receptive to adaptations in the team's direction or management style [4].
Even so, the immediate impact on Coach Probierz appears minimal, as he still holds his position following the controversy. Having taken over in September 2023, Probierz has been overseeing the team despite the disappointing results at Euro 2024. Notably, Poland is currently performing well in the UEFA qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1][3].
Future Implications
Lewandowski's decision leaves open the possibility for a future reconciliation, contingent on the continued presence of Coach Probierz. If neither results nor team dynamics meet expectations, Probierz's tenure could potentially come under renewed scrutiny [2][3]. For now, the team continues forward without Lewandowski, vying for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
I am not sure if Robert Lewandowski will return to play for the Polish national team, given his current boycott due to the appointment of Coach Michal Probierz. This long-standing feud, centered around the striker's removal as team captain, might affect the team's performance in upcoming tournaments such as European sports leagues and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
