Lewandowski Steps Away from Poland National Team Amid Coach Discontent

WARSAW, Poland — Robert Lewandowski has announced he will not play for the Poland national team while coach Michał Probierz remains in charge. The decision comes amid concerns over his physical and mental health after a demanding season with FC Barcelona.

The 36-year-old striker cited “physical and mental tiredness” as his reasons for stepping away during the current international window. Following Lewandowski’s decision, Probierz appointed Piotr Zieliński as the new captain for the Polish squad.

“Taking into account the circumstances and a loss of trust in the coach, I have decided to resign from playing for the Poland national team for as long as he remains in charge,” Lewandowski stated in a recent social media post. Despite his resignation, he left the possibility of a return open in the future, expressing hope to play again for the passionate Polish fans.

Lewandowski struggled with a hamstring injury at the end of Barcelona’s season, missing crucial matches such as the Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan and the final. He did make a return for the last three games, scoring twice as Barcelona secured the LaLiga title.

This month, Lewandowski opted out of joining the national team for a friendly against Moldova and a World Cup qualifier against Finland. In earlier remarks, he informed Coach Probierz, “I told him that I did not feel good physically, but especially mentally.”

Lewandowski holds the record for the most caps (158) and goals (85) for the Polish national team. Poland is currently leading their World Cup qualifying group and will face Finland on Tuesday, aiming for a spot in the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Probierz has managed the team since 2023, following Fernando Santos‘ departure. Under his leadership, Poland qualified for Euro 2024 but ended their campaign in the group stage without a victory.