Lewandowski Withdraws from Poland Squad to Rest After Intense Season

Poland captain Robert Lewandowski, aged 36, has withdrawn from the national team’s June matches against Moldova and Finland to rest after a demanding club season. Scoring 42 goals in 52 games for Barcelona, he cited physical fatigue. Coach Michał Probierz acknowledged the heavy workload, while former player Zbigniew Boniek questioned the decision. Poland prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers without him.

After the conclusion of an intense club season, Poland’s captain and top scorer Robert Lewandowski has decided to withdraw from the national team’s upcoming June matches against Moldova and Finland. The 36-year-old striker announced via Instagram that due to the physical demands of the season, he and the coach agreed it was best for him to skip the national team’s training camp.

Lewandowski had a remarkable season for Barcelona, scoring 42 goals in 52 appearances and reaching the Copa del Rey and Champions League finals, as well as competing closely for the La Liga title. Despite a hamstring injury that sidelined him in April, he recently celebrated his 100th goal for the club. National team coach Michał Probierz acknowledged Lewandowski’s decision, emphasizing the heavy workload the player endured.

However, former Polish legend Zbigniew Boniek expressed reservations about the choice, respecting Lewandowski’s decision but questioning its timing. Lewandowski’s absence creates a challenge for Poland ahead of their friendly against Moldova on June 6 and a critical World Cup qualifier against Finland on June 10. Finland is seen as Poland’s main competitor for second place in the group, which would grant a playoff spot. The squad will gather for a training camp in Katowice on June 2 to prepare for these important fixtures.