Lewandowski Boycotts Polish National Team Amid Rift With Coach
In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through Polish football, star striker, Robert Lewandowski has publicly declared that he will not play for the national team as long as current head coach Michał Probierz remains in charge.
The 36-year-old Barcelona forward, Poland’s all-time leading scorer with 85 goals in 158 appearances, announced his decision in a statement released Monday morning.
His boycott comes in the wake of a growing rift with Probierz, culminating in the coach’s recent decision to strip him of the team captaincy—an honor now passed to midfielder Piotr Zieliński.
“Considering the circumstances and the loss of trust in the coach, I have decided to resign from playing in the national team while he remains manager
. “This is not a decision I take lightly. Representing Poland has always been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Lewandowski wrote.
The fallout appears to stem from more than just the captaincy change. Sources close to the team suggest Lewandowski has grown increasingly frustrated with Probierz’s leadership, citing tactical disagreements and strained communication behind closed doors. Local media have described the development as an “earthquake” within the squad.
Lewandowski had already been absent from Poland’s recent international matches, including the June fixtures against Moldova and Finland, citing mental and physical fatigue after a taxing season at Barcelona, where he scored 42 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions. However, his sudden and forceful statement Monday clarified that his absence was not solely for rest, but rooted in deeper personal and professional concerns.
The Polish Football Association (PZPN) has not yet issued an official comment on Lewandowski’s announcement, though a press conference with coach Probierz is expected later this week. Poland’s recent form under Probierz has been solid, with a win over Moldova keeping their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes on track.
Yet Lewandowski’s absence could cast a shadow over the team’s momentum.
Fan response has been sharply divided. While many have rallied behind Lewandowski, applauding his years of service and voicing support for his return under new management, others argue that his decision to step away during a crucial qualifying campaign is unpatriotic and destabilizing.
Lewandowski, for his part, emphasized that his love for the national team has not waned.
“I want nothing more than to return and give everything I have for Poland. I hope that one day, I’ll again wear the red and white jersey—for the best fans in the world,” he concluded.
With key qualifiers looming, all eyes now turn to the Polish FA and Michał Probierz. Whether this standoff ends in reconciliation, resignation, or a prolonged standoff remains to be seen—but what’s clear is that Polish football faces one of its most pivotal crossroads in recent memory.
