Michal Probierz resigns as Poland manager following a row over his decision to replace Robert Lewandowski as captain.
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Poland manager resigns
Lewandowski, 36, said he would not play for the national team as long as Probierz remains in charge.
The country’s record goalscorer added that he felt “betrayed” by the way the manager had told him he was being replaced with Piotr Zielinski.
Probierz took over from Portuguese Fernando Santos as Poland manager in 2023.
“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,” Probierz said in a statement.
“Performing this function was the fulfilment of my professional dreams and the greatest honour in my life.”
What happens next for Poland?
Probierz’s contract was about to expire at the end of the qualifying period for the 2026 World Cup.
Poland are third in Group G of the 2026 qualifiers with six points from three matches.
“The Polish Football Association would like to thank selector Michal Probierz very much for his cooperation and involvement in leading the national team, wishing him success in his further career,” PZPN said.
Lewandowski, who has scored 85 goals for his country, missed Poland’s two World Cup qualifiers against Finland and Moldova.
The Barcelona striker cited physical and mental exhaustion after a long season as the reason for his absence.
Poland will next face the Netherlands in a World Cup qualifier on September 4.
