Robert Lewandowski (foto: Getty Images)
Robert Lewandowski has withdrawn from Poland’s national team over a fallout with coach Probierz, drawing both support and sharp criticism from former players.
Robert Lewandowski has announced that he will not represent Poland as long as Michał Probierz remains head coach, citing a complete breakdown of trust between the two. The Barcelona striker, team captain and Poland’s all-time top scorer, made the announcement on social media following a controversial decision to strip him of the captaincy and hand it to Piotr Zieliński.
"Given the circumstances and the loss of trust in the coach, I've decided not to play for the national team while he is in charge. I hope I’ll have the chance to play again for the best fans in the world," Lewandowski wrote.
The announcement comes after the 35-year-old reportedly skipped the team’s gathering ahead of the match against Moldova, supposedly with prior permission from the coach to rest after a demanding season. However, the timing of the armband switch has raised eyebrows and further strained the relationship.
The reaction in Poland has been mixed. Some former internationals have harshly criticised Lewandowski, while others — including current squad members — are said to support his stance.
Former striker Wojciech Kowalczyk was especially blunt:
"Lewandowski is acting like an idiot. It’s like those people who say they’ll leave the country after elections and come back when the president is gone. It’s absurd."
Another Polish legend, Grzegorz Lato, echoed that sentiment:
"I can’t imagine a player — no matter his name — choosing the national team coach and threatening not to play. I thought it was a joke when I saw the news online."
Despite the drama, Poland beat Moldova 2-0, and will face Finland on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the rift between the coach and Poland’s biggest star casts a shadow over the team’s preparations for upcoming matches.