PZPN

"After Fernando Santos' contract was terminated, I immediately started talking to the coaches. I met with both Michał Probierz and Marek Papszun. Each of them presented their idea of the national team, as well as the coaching staff they would like to work with. I also asked both coaches to give me a list of the players they would appoint to the Polish national team today if they could, of course. This was the basis for the conversation and the signing of the contract. I don't want to talk now about the achievements of Michał Probierz and Marek Papszun, because we all know about them very well. The key for me was experience. Being a coach vs the head coach are two different things. Michał Probierz led the Polish U-21 national team for over a year. He doesn't have to re-learn being the head coach or the structure of the federation. He has an excellent overview of youth teams. He worked as a coach of senior teams for 18 years. Many players who have played, or are playing, for the Polish national team have been coached by him. A number of factors were at play. I also spoke to the management board, the vice-presidents. I know their opinions. However, the decision was mine to make, as I, as president, have the authority to choose the head coach of Poland's main national team myself," stressed Cezary Kulesza.

The president of the Polish Football Association revealed that he also informed Marek Papszun of his choice on Tuesday evening. "I don't want to talk about the behind-the-scenes of our talks. However, I called the coach and informed him of my final decision," he said. 

"I will not say that Michał and I do not know each other, because we have known each other for many years. Coach Probierz worked with me at Jagiellonia Białystok for almost seven years. However, you have to distinguish between acquaintance, friendship and being a head coach. After all, you don't entrust someone with such a function just because you know them. I also know many other coaches, but I did not nominate them. Besides, if I had made a different choice, the question would certainly have been asked why this one and not that one... Let me stress again - I was guided not by my personal acquaintance with, but by the knowledge, experience and results of coach Probierz. The primary goal for us is to advance to the European Championship. As a federation, we will provide the head coach with all the tools he needs. We will cheer on and support the team every step of the way. I believe that coach Probierz will seize the opportunity and we will make it to the final tournament in Germany," added the Polish Football Association president.