Poland National Soccer Coach Resigns Amid Lewandowski Captaincy Dispute

Michal Probierz resigned as head coach of Poland's national football team following a public dispute with star striker Robert Lewandowski, who declared he would no longer play under Probierz's leadership. The controversy arose when Probierz decided to remove Lewandowski as team captain, a role he had held for 11 years, handing it to Piotr Zieliński instead. Lewandowski criticized the timing and manner of the captaincy change, saying he was informed via a brief phone call during a family moment, which was quickly followed by an official announcement. Probierz cited the loss of trust and the current circumstances as reasons for his resignation, describing his tenure as the fulfillment of his professional dreams and an honor. The Polish Football Association expressed gratitude for Probierz's contributions and wished him success, while the fallout has raised concerns about the team's future as Poland continues its World Cup qualification campaign. The situation reflects broader tensions within the team and federation, with fans and officials anxious about Poland's direction in international soccer.