Robert Lewandowski Hints at International Retirement After World Cup Exit

After the heartbreaking playoff defeat, Robert Lewandowski hinted that his long international career with the Poland national football team could be nearing its end. Poland failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a narrow 3-2 loss against the Sweden national football team in the playoff final, leaving the 37-year-old visibly emotional at the final whistle.

Soon after the match in Stockholm, Lewandowski shared a social media post featuring himself walking off the pitch, accompanied by the song Time to Say Goodbye by Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli, sparking speculation about his retirement. However, the striker later clarified that no final decision has been made, stating that he needs time to reflect before making any announcement. Lewandowski, who made his debut in 2008, has been Poland’s talisman for over a decade.

He has captained the side since 2014 and holds the national records with 89 goals in 165 appearances. Despite returning to the squad after resolving issues with former coach Michał Probierz, he may now finish his international journey without playing another World Cup. He also admitted that he has started preparing mentally for the end of his career, accepting that football is an important part of life but not everything.