Poland has decided to part ways with manager Fernando Santos, a move that comes after only six games under his leadership.
The 68-year-old, renowned for guiding Portugal to victory in Euro 2016, assumed the role in January and notably oversaw a remarkable 1-0 friendly triumph over Germany in June.
However, Santos’ tenure witnessed the Polish national team suffering three defeats in five competitive matches, including embarrassing losses to Moldova and Albania.
Santos faced substantial criticism in Poland for his tactics and for not attending domestic matches, and the team’s recent 2-0 loss to Albania on Sunday was the final straw for his superiors.
In an official statement, the Polish Football Association expressed gratitude to Santos for his efforts, while the departing manager conveyed his appreciation for the opportunity.
The string of disastrous results has left Poland in fourth place in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, necessitating favorable outcomes in other matches to have a chance at securing a top-two finish.
[KOMUNIKAT]
— PZPN (@pzpn_pl) September 13, 2023
Polski Związek Piłki Nożnej informuje, że z dniem 13 września 2023 roku trener Fernando Santos przestał pełnić obowiązki selekcjonera reprezentacji Polski.
Szczegóły… ⤵️
It remains uncertain whether Poland will name a successor to Santos before their next qualifying match against the Faroe Islands in October.
Even if Poland fails to secure a top-two finish in their group, they will still have a chance to earn a spot in Germany next summer through the play-offs. Among the nations that do not advance, the top 12 teams in the 2022-23 Nations League will compete in semi-final and final matches to secure one of the last three qualifying positions.
Euro 2024 could potentially mark the final major tournament for the legendary striker Robert Lewandowski, who scored three goals during Santos’ ill-fated tenure.
What has been your most memorable moment of Fernando Santos' term as selekcjoner?pic.twitter.com/hy3YsBJ31E
— PSN Futbol (@PSN_Futbol) September 14, 2023