POLAND: Poland’s record goal scorer Robert Lewandowski has announced he will no longer play for the national team after being stripped of his captaincy.

The 36-year-old striker has scored 85 goals in 158 matches for Poland but is currently out of the squad during the international window.

The Polish Football Federation informed Lewandowski personally and appointed Inter Milan midfielder Piotr Zieliński as the new captain, following advice from the team and coaching staff.

Lewandowski cited lack of trust in coach Michał Probierz and the situation as reasons for his decision, stating he will not play as long as Probierz remains head coach.

Before Poland’s World Cup qualifier against Finland on Tuesday, coach Probierz and captain Zieliński are expected to address the issue.

Probierz, 52, took charge in September 2023. Poland was the first team eliminated from Euro 2024 after finishing last in their group but currently leads their group after two wins in World Cup 2026 qualifiers.