Michal Probierz has officially stepped down as the head coach of the Polish national team, following a public rift with star striker Robert Lewandowski.
In a statement released on Thursday, Probierz explained that his decision was made in the best interest of the team.
“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 selector,” he said.
Tensions between the coach and Lewandowski escalated after the striker announced on Sunday that he would no longer represent the national team as long as Probierz remained in charge.
The situation worsened after Poland suffered a 2-1 loss to Finland, a result that pushed them off the top of their European World Cup qualifying group.
Probierz reportedly angered Lewandowski by stripping him of the captain’s armband, a move that contributed to the breakdown in their relationship.