Gareth Southgate to coach Robert Lewandowski?! Ex-England boss puts himself forward for Poland job after Michal Probierz's resignation
Baku, June 17, AZERTAC
Gareth Southgate could manage Robert Lewandowski as he has reportedly put himself forward for the Poland job after Michal Probierz's resignation, The Goal reported citing the Polish media.
According to Polish outlet Przeglad Sportowy Onet, Southgate has got in touch with the Polish Football Association (PZPN) to express his willingness to take charge of the national side. This development arrives in the wake of Probierz leaving the managerial role after a bitter feud with Lewandowski.
Lewandowski announced a temporary pause on his international career as he was unhappy about Probierz's decision to pass the captain’s armband to Inter Milan’s Piotr Zielinski. However, Probierz has since announced his resignation, which should prompt the Barcelona star to make a return to the national team set up.
The 36-year-old had said before Probierz's exit: “Taking into account the circumstances and a loss of trust in the coach, I have decided to resign from playing for the Poland national team for as long as he remains in charge. I hope I will still have another chance to play again for the best fans in the world.”
While Southgate’s availability and interest are undeniable, several factors could complicate the deal. The former England manager was among the highest-paid national coaches in world football, earning around £5 million ($6.75m) per year with the English FA. In contrast, the most lucrative deal ever handed out by the Polish FA, to former Portugal boss Fernando Santos, reportedly topped out at around €2.5m (£2m/$3m) annually. Unless Southgate is prepared to accept a significant wage cut, the financial gap could prove insurmountable for the Polish federation.
Southgate is not the only name being linked to the vacant position. A number of high-profile foreign coaches, including Nenad Bjelica, Miroslav Klose, Winfried Schafer, and Carlos Queiroz, have reportedly shown interest or been mentioned as possible successors to Probierz. On the domestic front, former Rakow Czestochowa coach Marek Papszun is said to be enthusiastic about taking the reins. Additionally, rumours suggest that PZPN president Cezary Kulesza may have held informal discussions with Maciej Skorza, currently managing Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds, during his recent visit to the United States.
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