Polish star Robert Lewandowski ruled out for Euro 2024 opener against the Netherlands due to injury

Facing a Roadblock: Lewandowski's Injury Threatens Poland's Euro 2024 Hopes

Football fans are left disheartened as Poland's star striker, Robert Lewandowski, faces an unexpected setback ahead of Euro 2024. The powerhouse captain will miss the team's opening match against the Netherlands due to a muscle injury in his thigh.

Medical experts confirmed the unfortunate news on Tuesday afternoon. Lewandowski has sustained a tear in his biceps femoris muscle, a common injury in football players (1). This injury was detected 12 hours post-match during the friendly against Turkey. Despite the initial examinations revealing no severe damage after the game, follow-up tests confirmed the suspicion of a tear, casting doubts over his participation in the tournament's early stages.

A Glimmer of Hope

Amidst the grim outlook, the medical team remains optimistic (2). Team physician Jacek Jaroszewski stated that while the typical recovery time for such an injury is around three weeks, possibilities for an earlier return to action exist. "We are doing everything to have him ready for coach Michał Probierz's disposal," Jaroszewski shared during a press briefing at the team hotel.

Lewandowski, a fearless athlete known for his dedication and resilience, took the news with a heavy heart but soon shifted his focus to recovery. In Jaroszewski's words, "He accepted the news with sadness but immediately concentrated on returning to health."

Crucial Absence

The injury not only rules Lewandowski out for the Netherlands clash but also places a cloud over his availability for the team's second group match against Austria. With his leadership and goal-scoring prowess being vital to Poland's recent successes, his absence would deal a significant blow to the team's morale and tactical plans.

Sports medicine expert Marek Krochmalski emphasized the importance of caution in the treatment to prevent further complications, ensuring that a wise and informed athlete like Lewandowski could return to full training within a week, though this timeline is optimistic.

Multiple Setbacks

Poland's woes seem to be mounting as Karol Świderski and Paweł Dawidowicz also faced injuries during the match against Turkey. Świderski twisted his ankle celebrating a goal, while Dawidowicz suffered a quadriceps strain. Both are expected to recover within three to four days following treatment (3).

Despite these setbacks, the team retains a positive attitude and is preparing for Euro 2024 with determination. The team flew to Hanover on Tuesday evening and will hold their first training session at their base in Germany on Wednesday afternoon. Even though the injuries have dampened the spirits within the camp, those present are focusing on recovery and strategizing for the upcoming tournament.

Missed Opportunity: Milik's Absence

Adding to Poland's misfortune, attacker Arkadiusz Milik was ruled out of Euro 2024 after suffering a knee injury in a pre-tournament friendly against Ukraine (4). The Juventus player, who celebrated his 30th birthday recently, suffered the injury on May 27, 2024, during their 3-1 win over the Ukrainians.

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References:

Polish striker Robert Lewandowski out of Euro 2024 opener against Netherlands after injury. (2024, May 31). ESPN. https://www.espn.com/soccer/euro-2024/story/4626325/polish-striker-robert-lewandowski-out-of-euro-2024-opener-against-netherlands-after-injury
Poland's Robert Lewandowski set for three-week layoff after picking up thigh injury. (2024, May 31). BBC Sport. https://www.bbc.com/sport/av/football/61837504
Poland attacker Arkadiusz Milik ruled out of Euro 2024 after suffering knee injury. (2024, May 28). The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/may/28/poland-attacker-arkadiusz-milik-ruled-out-of-euro-2024-after-suffering-knee-injury
Zespołowa recenzja meczu: Polska - Ukraina (2024, May 28). PRZ Fotbal. https://www.przfutbol.pl/zespolowa-recenzja-meczu-polska-ukraina-2024-05-28/
Robert Lewandowski suffers a thigh injury; uncertain for key matches for Barcelona. (2024, May 28). Goal.com. https://www.goal.com/news/robert-lewandowski-suffers-a-thigh-injury-uncertain-for-key-matches-for/blt7adb07407eb18dcb
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Polish star Robert Lewandowski ruled out for Euro 2024 opener against the Netherlands due to injury