Poland’s manager, Michal Probierz, has clarified his choice to remove Robert Lewandowski from the role of captain of the national team.
This decision prompted the 36-year-old Barcelona forward to resign from the Poland national team.
Lewandowski stated that he will not represent Poland again as long as Probierz is the head coach.
In an interview with Sport, the Polish coach elaborated on the rationale behind his decision.
The manager mentioned that he took the time to consult with the players and his coaching staff, analyzing the circumstances following Poland’s match against Moldova.
“After this analysis, I concluded that a change of captain for the national team was necessary,” he remarked.
He indicated that he chose to appoint another player, Zielinski, as captain, citing that Zielinski had engaged in positive discussions with the team members.
Probierz also mentioned that he rejected Lewandowski’s request, made via phone, to publicly announce the change of captaincy.
“I did not agree, as it was simply my decision,” he stated.
The coach noted that he first learned about Lewandowski’s intention to withdraw from the national team through the media, adding, “Nobody has closed the door on him. I wish him the best of luck.
“Zielinski will now assume the captaincy. I believe this is the most suitable decision for the team at this moment…”
