Lewandowski Drama in Poland: Captaincy Stripped, Brief Retirement, and a Fresh Start

Bornheimer – The new La Liga season has not given Robert Lewandowski much spotlight. The veteran Barcelona striker has only featured twice so far, both times as a substitute. He played 14 minutes in a 3-2 win against Levante and 12 minutes in a 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano, totaling just 26 minutes of action.

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The Captaincy Controversy

A bigger story unfolded in the Polish national team. Tensions rose between Lewandowski and head coach Michal Probierz after the coach stripped him of the captain’s armband. The decision reportedly shocked and disappointed the striker, creating an uneasy atmosphere within the squad.

A Brief Retirement and Coaching Change

Shortly after losing the armband, Lewandowski stunned fans by announcing his retirement from international football. However, his decision triggered unexpected consequences as Probierz stepped down from his position. When Jan Urban was appointed as the new coach, Lewandowski made his return to the national team, though he admitted the experience had been emotionally difficult.

Emotional Struggles and Fan Support

Lewandowski confessed that the summer drama took a toll on him emotionally. Yet, the unwavering support from Polish fans helped him regain strength. “At first it was difficult, but every day I received encouragement from supporters. It was something truly special, and I want to thank them for that,” he said.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Determined to move past the turbulent months, Lewandowski expressed optimism about the future. “We must leave some things behind to focus on what lies ahead,” he emphasized. The striker is now setting his sights firmly on upcoming challenges with renewed determination.

World Cup Qualification in Focus

Lewandowski’s next mission is leading Poland in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Two tough fixtures await against the Netherlands and Finland. Confident as always, he believes Poland can deliver strong performances and collect crucial points. “This is qualification, and our only goal is reaching the World Cup,” he stated.

A Veteran Still Leading the Way

At 37 years old, Lewandowski remains Poland’s most influential figure. Despite the controversies, his leadership and experience continue to be invaluable. Fans and teammates alike hope he can be the driving force that guides Poland toward another World Cup appearance.