Robert Lewandowski Steps Away from Poland Squad After Losing Captaincy

Robert Lewandowski, Poland’s all-time leading scorer with 85 goals in 158 games, has opted out of national duty under coach Michal Probierz after being stripped of captaincy. The 36-year-old Barcelona striker expressed feeling betrayed, criticizing the communication and loss of trust following the appointment of Piotr Zielinski as captain.

To the shock of Polish football fans, Robert Lewandowski has announced a break from international duty after being stripped of the national team captaincy by head coach Michal Probierz. The 36-year-old Barcelona striker, who has scored 85 goals in 158 appearances for Poland, expressed deep disappointment and a sense of betrayal over the decision.

Midfielder Piotr Zielinski has been named the new captain, prompting Lewandowski to step away from the squad during the current international window. Lewandowski, who captained Poland in Euro 2024, shared that he was informed of the change via phone and felt the matter was handled poorly. He criticized the lack of direct communication and stated that his trust in the coach had been broken.

In a public statement, he confirmed that he will not represent Poland as long as Probierz remains in charge, but hopes to return in the future. Having worn the armband since 2013 and played in two World Cups and four Euros, Lewandowski called the national team “the most important thing” in his career. Poland, currently unbeaten in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, face Finland in Helsinki next. The absence of their top scorer casts a shadow over the team’s campaign moving forward.