The Polish Football Association (PZPN) made the surprise announcement yesterday, naming midfielder Piotr Zieliński as the new national team captain. The decision, reportedly initiated by head coach Michał Probierz, came without prior warning to Lewandowski, the country’s all-time top scorer and long-time team leader.
Lewandowski: “I’ve Lost Trust in the Coach”
In a strongly worded statement posted to social media, Lewandowski, 36, expressed deep disappointment in how the situation was handled and cited a loss of trust in the current coaching staff as his reason for stepping away from the squad.
“Given the current circumstances and my lack of trust in the national team coach, I have decided to step away from the Poland national team,” he wrote. “I still want to play for the best fans in the world, but only under a different coach.”
Lewandowski’s statement makes it clear that his decision is not a retirement, but a pause, conditional upon a change in management. Sources close to the team suggest that Lewandowski felt blindsided and disrespected by the way the decision was delivered.
Internal Rift and Fallout
Reports from Polish media indicate that Probierz did not consult with Lewandowski before naming Zieliński as captain. Instead, the striker found out after the official announcement, which many believe fueled his emotional reaction.
Adding fuel to the fire, Lewandowski’s former agent, Cezary Kucharski, publicly criticised the Bayern Munich legend, calling his actions “immature and unprofessional.”
“Probierz needed to reestablish authority in the dressing room,” Kucharski told local media. “Lewandowski and his entourage have undermined team unity for some time now. This move was necessary, and the Polish FA supported it.”
Coach Responds: “No One Closed the Door on Robert”
At a pre-match press conference ahead of Poland’s European qualifiers against Finland, coach Probierz addressed the controversy. He confirmed that he had discussed the decision internally with players and staff before making the switch.
“I told Robert about the change during a phone call,” said Probierz. “He said the captain’s armband doesn’t mean anything to him, and that it wouldn’t change anything. Later, he called again asking to announce the decision himself, but I declined; it was mine to make.”
When asked about Lewandowski’s exit, Probierz remained diplomatic.
“I respect Robert. No one is shutting the door on him. But right now, my responsibility is to do what’s best for the team.”
Probierz added that Zieliński had been “outstanding” in stepping into the leadership role and believes this shift is part of a larger effort to build a stronger, more unified squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Zieliński, who now captains the side, spoke humbly about the honour and the responsibility that comes with it.
“Robert is a great player, that’s not up for debate. The coach made a decision, and I accept it with pride and full respect. If there’s a chance to speak with Robert, I’d be happy to do that after the Finland match.”
What’s Next for Poland, and Lewandowski?
With the World Cup looming in 2026, questions swirl over whether Poland’s greatest-ever goalscorer will return in time for what may be his final major tournament. The rift with Probierz, unless repaired, could keep Lewandowski out of the squad at a crucial stage.
His absence leaves a significant void. Lewandowski has earned 158 caps and scored 85 goals for Poland. His leadership, experience, and goal-scoring instincts have been foundational for the team for over a decade.
Whether this saga ends in reconciliation or permanent separation remains to be seen. Still, one thing is sure: Poland’s national team is entering a new chapter, and it begins without its most iconic player.
