Gareth Southgate’s bid to become Poland’s national team coach was rejected. After Michal Probierz left the job, Southgate’s representatives reached out to the Polish Football Federation, but they weren’t interested.
Southgate has been out of a job since his eight-year stint as England’s coach ended. He lost the Euro 2024 final to Spain. Poland’s federation president, Cezary Kulesza, wasn’t sold on Southgate’s record with England.
Kulesza said he got a proposal to hire Southgate, but he’s looking for someone who can guarantee a World Cup spot. “If he could promise that, I’d hire him right away,” Kulesza told Przeglad Sportowy.
He pointed to Fernando Santos’ time in Poland as an example. Santos, now coaching Azerbaijan, had a mixed record with Poland. He won three games, lost three, and got fired after losses to Moldova and Albania.
Kulesza wants to hire Maciej Skorza, a Polish coach currently at the Club World Cup with Urawa Red Diamonds. Poland has already started qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, with two wins and one loss in their first three games.
They’re in a tough group with the Netherlands, Finland, Lithuania, and Malta.
Coach hunt
The Polish Football Federation is still looking for a new coach. They’re not rushing into a decision, and Kulesza is being cautious.
He’s learned from past mistakes, like hiring Santos. The Portuguese coach was a big name, but he didn’t deliver.
Kulesza is prioritizing a coach who knows the Polish team and can guarantee success. Skorza is his top choice, but nothing is official yet.
The federation will take their time, and Kulesza is confident they’ll find the right person.
Priorities
For Kulesza, the most important thing is qualifying for the World Cup. He wants a coach who can make that happen.
Southgate’s experience with England is impressive, but it’s not enough. Kulesza needs someone who can win with Poland.
Skorza has a good track record, and Kulesza likes his style. He’s hoping to make a decision soon, but he won’t rush into it.
The Polish team needs the right coach, and Kulesza is willing to wait for the best person.
- Poland rejected Gareth Southgate’s bid to become coach
- Cezary Kulesza wants a coach who can guarantee a World Cup spot
- Maciej Skorza is Kulesza’s top choice for the job
- Poland has already started qualifying for the 2026 World Cup