Poland’s national team is in turmoil as manager Michal Probierz steps down amidst controversy surrounding his decision to replace Robert Lewandowski as captain. The star striker announced he would not play for the team as long as Probierz was in charge.
Lewandowski, Poland’s all-time leading goalscorer, was replaced by Piotr Zielinski for recent matches against Moldova and Finland. Citing “physical and mental tiredness,” Lewandowski made himself unavailable for international duty during the current window.
Probierz’s resignation comes after Poland suffered a 2-1 defeat to Finland in a World Cup qualifier, leaving them third in Group G. The manager stated, “I have come to the conclusion that in the current situation the best decision for the good of the national team will be my resignation from the position of coach.”
Taking over in 2023, Probierz led Poland to Euro 2024 where they were the first team eliminated. In his tenure, he won nine matches, drew five, and lost seven. He expressed gratitude to the players he worked with and wished them well, emphasizing that the national team is a shared national asset.
