Probierz Resigns as Poland Manager After Lewandowski Spat

Michal Probierz has relinquished his position as the manager of the Polish national team after a disagreement with star striker Robert Lewandowski regarding a contentious alteration in team captaincy.

Probierz, who assumed leadership in September of the previous year, stepped down following Lewandowski’s declaration that he would no longer play under Probierz’s direction.

The disagreement arose from the coach’s choice to remove the captain’s armband from the 36-year-old Barcelona forward and give it to midfielder Piotr Zielinski instead.

Lewandowski, who holds the record for Poland’s all-time leading scorer with 85 goals scored throughout 158 appearances, voiced concerns about the way the decision was conveyed.

He stated that Probierz informed him of the choice via a quick phone call while Lewandowski was getting his kids ready for bed.

Shortly after, the Polish Football Association (PZPN) released a formal statement, which left the seasoned striker feeling “hurt and disappointed.”

Probierz justified his resignation by saying that it was important to put the national team’s interests first.

Probierz stated, “I have come to the conclusion that the best course of action for the national team in the present situation is for me to resign from my position as coach.”

He continued, “Serving in this capacity fulfilled my professional goals and represented the highest honour of my life.”

Probierz’s tenure came to an end on a depressing note, as Poland came in last place in their group at UEFA Euro 2024.

It should be remembered that Poland will play the Netherlands in a World Cup qualifier on September 4.