June 9, 2025 - Robert Lewandowski was expected to join the Polish national team camp after returning home from a successful season with Barcelona. However, the striker withdrew, saying he was mentally tired. Because of this, he did not play in the international friendly match against Moldova on June 6.

It was believed that Lewandowski would join the Polish team by tomorrow night for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Finland. But even 48 hours before the match, he was still missing.

Then came a shocking statement from Lewandowski. While explaining his absence, he openly rebelled against the coach. He said he would not return to the Polish national team as long as coach Michal Probiec remained in charge.

Steps Away Over Coach Dispute

Last night, the 36-year-old Lewandowski posted on social media: "Considering the current situation and the loss of confidence in the national team coach, I have decided not to play for the Polish national team as long as he is the coach. I hope that one day I will be able to play in front of the best fans in the world again."

Captaincy Change Sparks Conflict

Before Lewandowski's announcement, Poland’s coach Michal Probiec had decided to give the captaincy to Inter Milan midfielder Piotr Zielinski. Reports say that Lewandowski was unhappy with this decision. The coach was also displeased with the footballer's refusal to play in recent friendly matches for Poland.

After Lewandowski’s statement, the Polish Football Association officially named Piotr Zielinski as the new team captain. Lewandowski had been the team captain since 2014, after taking the armband from Jakub Blaszczykowski.

Lewandowski has played a record 158 matches for Poland and scored 85 goals - more than any other player in the country's history. Many people in Poland consider him the greatest athlete the nation has ever produced.

Probiec’s Record

In September 2023, the Polish Football Association removed Fernando Santos and appointed Probiec as head coach. Since then, under Probiec, Poland has played 20 matches - winning 10, losing six, and drawing four.

The team also started well in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, winning their first two matches against Lithuania and Malta. They are currently at the top of Group G. But Lewandowski’s sudden exit has shaken the team just before their important match against Finland. The Polish legend has now taken an indefinite break from international football. For now, he will be resting before joining Barcelona’s pre-season camp in mid-July.