Poland national team head coach Jan Urban has spoken out regarding the recent injury sustained by star striker Robert Lewandowski, expressing uncertainty about the nature and severity of the problem. Barcelona recently released an official statement confirming that the forward had suffered a left hamstring injury, sparking concern among both club and national team supporters. Urban, however, appeared puzzled by the diagnosis, suggesting that the situation did not align with what he and his medical staff had observed while Lewandowski was on international duty. “For me, if a fibrillary ligament ruptures, it prevents you from running at high speed; it’s impossible to play.
And everyone involved in football knows this. I don’t understand it,” the Poland coach told reporters after being asked about the situation. He went on to clarify that Lewandowski had shown no visible signs of serious discomfort during the national team’s recent matches and training sessions. “Yes, he did feel something,” Urban admitted. “We agreed with the doctor and Robert that if he felt any discomfort, he would ask to be substituted. But he played until the end of the match without any problems. No, I have no suspicions. Lewandowski was in excellent form and didn’t play against New Zealand because we decided to give other players a chance.”
Barcelona’s announcement of Lewandowski’s injury came as a surprise to the Polish camp, as the player had completed his most recent international match without any visible issues. The club stated that the 36-year-old forward had sustained damage to his left hamstring and would undergo medical evaluation to determine the recovery timeline. Injuries to hamstring muscles are notoriously tricky for footballers, as they affect acceleration, sprinting, and overall explosiveness — all key components of Lewandowski’s playing style. However, Urban’s remarks indicate that the striker showed no such physical limitations while representing Poland.
Observers have speculated that the injury may have been aggravated upon his return to Barcelona training sessions or that it could be a precautionary diagnosis by the Spanish club’s medical team. Modern football clubs often take an extremely cautious approach when dealing with high-profile players, preferring to rest them even at the slightest sign of muscular discomfort.
Lewandowski’s schedule in recent months has been intense. Between Barcelona’s demanding La Liga campaign, their Champions League commitments, and Poland’s qualifiers, the veteran striker has faced little rest. Fatigue, combined with accumulated micro-tears in muscle fibers, could have contributed to the issue even if no immediate symptoms were visible during matches. Despite the uncertainty, both Barcelona and the Polish Football Federation are reportedly maintaining close communication to ensure a coordinated recovery plan.
Urban emphasized that he has full trust in Lewandowski’s professionalism and fitness awareness. “Robert always knows his body well,” the coach said. “He’s disciplined, he listens to his body, and he never takes unnecessary risks. That’s why this situation is confusing — he didn’t feel any major problem when he was here.”While Barcelona’s medical staff has not disclosed an official return date, early reports from Spain suggest that Lewandowski could be sidelined for two to three weeks, depending on the results of further examinations. The timing is particularly unfortunate, as both club and country are entering critical phases of their respective campaigns.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his injury, few doubt Lewandowski’s commitment to recovery and excellence. Over the course of his career, the Polish forward has built a reputation as one of football’s most dedicated professionals — a player who meticulously maintains his fitness through diet, training, and recovery techniques. Throughout his illustrious career, Lewandowski has suffered very few serious injuries, a testament to his discipline and work ethic.
Known for his precision and consistency, he remains among the world’s top strikers even in his mid-thirties. His ability to adapt to new challenges — first in Germany with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, and now in Spain with Barcelona — has cemented his place among football’s modern greats. For Jan Urban and the Polish national team, Lewandowski’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. His professionalism sets the standard for younger players, while his performances continue to inspire a generation of Polish fans and athletes. “Robert is not just our captain — he’s an example of what it means to be a true professional,” Urban said. “He’s focused, disciplined, and always gives everything for his country.”
