Robert Lewandowski (37, Barcelona) has effectively ousted the Polish coach.
The Polish Football Association announced the voluntary resignation of coach Michal Probierz through its official channel on the 12th (Korea time). This came just four days after the 'Polish star striker' and world-class Lewandowski expressed strong criticism.
Lewandowski declared a split with the coach, showing displeasure at being stripped of his role as team captain. He publicly protested, saying, “I received a call from the coach while I was putting the kids to bed. After that short call, I learned about the news of my removal from the captaincy on the association's homepage. Trust has completely crumbled. I will not play under this coaching regime anymore.”
Ultimately, the conflict between the team captain and the coach ended with the coach's resignation. Coach Probierz stated in his resignation announcement, “The national team coach was the pinnacle of my career. However, I have now determined that it is time to step down.”
He added, “I thank the association and my colleagues. I will not forget the support of the fans.”
The Polish Football Association stated, “We deeply appreciate Coach Probierz's dedication. We wish him success in his future endeavors.”
Some have raised the analysis that the change of captain was a measure to shift the stagnant atmosphere. However, the majority point out the coach's strategic failure in the lack of respect and communication with Lewandowski.
Lewandowski is a living legend of Poland, having scored 85 goals in 158 international matches. He was excluded from the squad for the June international matches due to a hamstring injury. During this time, Coach Probierz appointed another player as the new captain in place of Lewandowski.
[Photo] Lewandowski and Coach Probierz ⓒGettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited), Polish Football Association
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