Robert Lewandowski, Poland’s legendary striker and record goalscorer, has publicly expressed feelings of betrayal and deep disappointment after losing the captaincy of the national team.
The Barcelona forward announced his withdrawal from international duty, citing a “loss of trust” in coach Michał Probierz, who replaced him with midfielder Piotr Zieliński. The unfolding controversy reveals tensions behind the scenes and raises questions about leadership and communication within the Polish squad.
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A Captaincy Stripped and a Star Player Walks Away
On Sunday, Michał Probierz, who has managed Poland since 2023, made the surprise decision to remove Lewandowski’s captaincy, handing the armband to Piotr Zieliński.
Lewandowski responded swiftly by announcing on social media his refusal to represent Poland “for as long as [the coach] remains in charge,” citing a breach of trust that left him “very hurt.” The 36-year-old, who has led Poland for over a decade and represented his country 158 times, said, “I hope I will still have another chance to play again for the best fans in the world.”
Communication Breakdown Sparks Fallout
In an exclusive interview with Polish outlet WP SportoweFakty, Lewandowski sharply criticized the manner in which Probierz handled the decision. “I haven’t been captain for a year or two. I’ve been wearing the armband for 11 years, and I’ve been playing for the national team for 17. It seemed to me that such matters should be handled differently,” he explained.
The striker lamented the lack of a proper, face-to-face conversation. “Everything was communicated over the phone. It really shouldn’t be like this. The coach betrayed my trust … The national team has always been the most important thing to me. At the same time, I’m very hurt by what happened. It’s not even about the decision regarding the armband, but about the way it was communicated to me.”
Probierz Responds, But the Rift Widens
Coach Michał Probierz revealed at a press conference that he informed Lewandowski by phone from Finland about the captaincy change. According to Probierz, “Robert replied that the armband means nothing and it won’t change anything in the team.” However, a later call did not go smoothly, with Lewandowski allegedly urging the coach to make it seem he had relinquished the captaincy voluntarily. Probierz declined and found out through the media that Lewandowski had quit the national team.
Probierz took a pragmatic stance: “No one is closing the door on him, but I wish him luck … There are situations in life when you get offended and then you move on. In football, you can’t get offended.” His comments underscore a significant difference in how the two view the situation and the importance of moving past emotional disputes.
Lewandowski Reflects on His Future
When asked about the possibility of retiring from international football entirely, Lewandowski remained contemplative. He accused Probierz of “caving into media pressure” and “breaking agreements” made previously. “I want to sit down and think about it all calmly. I need to catch my breath. Then I will be able to say more about my thoughts and what’s next. Today there is regret and anger. I have always cared a lot about the national team. Nothing has changed in that respect.”
This measured response shows Lewandowski’s ongoing internal conflict between his love for the Polish team and the pain caused by this controversy.
A Storied Career Overshadowed by Conflict
Lewandowski’s impact on Polish football is monumental. With 158 caps—49 more than the second-most capped player, Jakub Błaszczykowski—and 85 goals, far outpacing Włodzimierz Lubański’s tally, he is Poland’s most decorated footballer. His leadership spanned over a decade, starting in 2013 during a World Cup qualifier, and included appearances at two World Cups and four European Championships.
Despite not being included in the June squad due to club rest after the Barcelona season, Lewandowski showed his respect for the team by attending a friendly against Moldova, where Poland celebrated Kamil Grosicki’s final appearance.
Poland’s Next Challenge and the Road Ahead
As Poland prepare to face Finland in Helsinki, hoping to maintain a perfect record in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, the absence of Lewandowski is a significant blow. The dispute highlights a crucial juncture for the national team, both on and off the pitch.
For now, the future remains uncertain. Will Lewandowski and the Polish Football Association reconcile, or has a rift been permanently opened between a legendary player and his national coach?
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FAQs
Why did Lewandowski quit the Polish national team?
Lewandowski quit after losing the captaincy and citing a “loss of trust” in coach Michał Probierz.
Who replaced Lewandowski as Poland’s captain?
Midfielder Piotr Zieliński was appointed captain.
How long has Lewandowski captained Poland?
He wore the armband for 11 years and played for Poland for 17 years.
What reasons did Probierz give for the captaincy change?
He wanted to initiate change, despite acknowledging Lewandowski’s importance.
What is Lewandowski’s future with the national team?
He is currently undecided and considering his options carefully.
