Portuguese coach Fernando Santos was dismissed this Wednesday, a decision announced by the Polish Football Association on its official site. The federation confirmed the parting of ways with the veteran manager, signaling a significant shift for Poland as it plans its approach to upcoming competitions. The move comes after a period of transition and a desire to set a clear path for the national team’s development in the near future.
The president of the Polish Football Association, Cezary Kulesza, publicly thanked Santos for his contributions and extended wishes for continued success in his future sporting endeavors. The message underscored appreciation for the time he spent guiding the national squad and highlighted the positive impact of his leadership during a time of change. Kulesza emphasized that the decision was made with respect for all involved and with a view toward maintaining momentum for Polish football on the international stage.
Fernando Santos, renowned for steering Portugal to the European Championship title in 2016, took charge of the Polish national team in late January. His tenure lasted just under eight months, during which the team played six official matches, recording three victories and three defeats. The most recent result came in the knockout stage against Albania, a 2-0 loss that ended Poland’s run in the European Cup competition at that stage. The brief period of leadership is described as one characterized by collaborative efforts and a focus on building a foundation for growth, even as the results reflected both bright moments and challenges.
In remarks on the federation’s website, Santos reflected on his experience with the squad, noting that the split was a mutual decision and extending warm wishes to the country and its supporters. He expressed respect for the players, staff, and fans who welcomed him, highlighting the cooperative spirit that marked his time in charge and the willingness of everyone involved to work through a transitional phase. The veteran coach spoke about the importance of unity within the team and the role that shared purpose plays in turning potential into results.
With the coaching position now open, the federation indicated that selecting a new head coach is a top priority. The board, led by the president, stressed the importance of identifying the right leadership to guide the national squad through forthcoming fixtures and tournaments. While no exact timeline for the next appointment was announced, officials pledged to pursue the process with diligence to ensure a smooth transition and sustained competitiveness on the international stage. The announcement signaled a careful, measured approach to find a leader who can align with the federation’s strategic goals and bolster Poland’s performance in the years ahead.