Michal Probierz has resigned as the manager of the Polish national football team, according to reports on June 12, 2025. This decision follows a controversy sparked by his handling of Robert Lewandowski's captaincy and compounded by a recent defeat to Finland.

Probierz, who took over as manager in September 2023, faced immense pressure after Poland's lackluster performance at Euro 2024 and in the UEFA Nations League. The final straw appears to be his decision to strip Robert Lewandowski, the team's record goalscorer, of his captaincy. The armband was instead given to Piotr Zielinski.

Lewandowski, reportedly unhappy with the way Probierz communicated the decision, announced his withdrawal from the national team as long as Probierz remained in charge. According to reports, Lewandowski received a short call from Probierz about the captaincy change while he was putting his children to sleep, and shortly after, an official statement appeared on the Polish Football Association's website. The Barcelona striker felt betrayed by the manager's actions.

In a statement announcing his resignation, Probierz said, "I have come to the conclusion that, in the current situation, the best decision for the good of the national team will be my resignation from the position of coach. Serving in this role has been the fulfillment of my professional dreams and the greatest honor of my life." He also thanked his colleagues, the Polish Football Federation staff, and the players he had the opportunity to work with.

Probierz's tenure included successfully guiding Poland to Euro 2024 through the play-offs, where they defeated Wales in a penalty shootout. However, the team's overall performance and internal conflicts ultimately led to his departure. His final match as Poland coach was a 2-1 loss to Finland in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

The Polish Football Association has acknowledged Probierz's resignation and thanked him for his dedication and involvement in leading the national team. They wished him well in his future endeavors.

Poland now faces the task of finding a new head coach before their next World Cup qualifier match against the Netherlands in September. They are currently third in Group G of the 2026 qualifiers, behind Finland and the Netherlands. The new manager will need to address not only the team's on-field performance but also the fractured relationship with key players like Robert Lewandowski to secure Poland's chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.