Lewandowski said “I’ve worn the armband for eleven years and played for Poland for seventeen. It seemed to me that such matters should be handled differently”
Robert Lewandowski has explained his dramatic decision to step away from the Poland national team, accusing current manager Michal Probierz of betrayal and poor communication following his removal as team captain.
The Barcelona striker said that he received a surprise phone call from Probierz informing him of the decision to hand the armband to Inter Milan midfielder Piotr Zielinski. Lewandowski told WP SportoweFakty that the timing and handling of the news left him deeply hurt.
“I got a surprise call from coach Michal Probierz with the information that he had decided to take away my armband,” said Lewandoski. “I was not prepared for it at all, I was putting my children to sleep.
“The conversation lasted a few minutes. Moments later, the announcement was already published on the federation’s website. The way it was communicated to me is really surprising.
“I’ve worn the armband for eleven years and played for Poland for seventeen. It seemed to me that such matters should be handled differently. Especially since there’s a lot of time until the next training camp. The coach betrayed my trust.”
Despite stepping back, Lewandowski said that he is not turning his back on Poland out of spite.
“It’s not like I’m suddenly offended with the national team,” said the Barcelona striker. “The national team has always been the most important thing to me. But I’m very hurt by what happened.”
Probierz had told Lewandowski that the decision was made to ease pressure on him, citing the striker’s recent public comments about needing rest. The striker told WP SportoweFakty that he “really [doesn’t] care about the armband itself”.
Lewandowski also wished Zielinski well as the new captain: “I believe in Piotr Zielinski and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for him.”
It remains unclear whether the relationship can be repaired before preparations for the 2026 World Cup campaign gather pace.
