Lewandowski Eyes Euro 2024 Success With Poland Amid Injury Recovery

Robert Lewandowski has no immediate plans to retire from his Poland career post-Euro 2024 as he works to regain fitness for the tournament. The Barcelona striker sustained a thigh injury during Monday's 2-1 friendly win over Turkiye and has been ruled out of Poland's opening match.

While Lewandowski will not play against the Netherlands on Sunday, he hopes to return for matches against Austria and France in Group D. The former Bayern Munich star turns 36 in August but is not yet considering retirement from international duty. "I cannot say that is yes or not," he told CNN. "It depends on many different things. Physically, I am feeling very well."

Lewandowski added, "I don't see many differences, especially this year, than before. But if I feel something inside, in my heart, saying maybe it's time to say goodbye, then I know that the time is coming. Until now, I didn't feel this kind of feeling, so it's still not this kind of way that I am thinking about this."

Poland are competing in their fourth successive European Championship after defeating Wales on penalties in their play-off final in March. They have only advanced past the group stage once in their last three appearances. However, Lewandowski remains hopeful that his team can make an impact in Germany.

"I think we can play good football," he said. "We know that we are not the favourites in the group stage. But I remember the last World Cup; we played the first half against France really well. I think we surprised them."

Lewandowski continued, "I hope that we will also surprise them now at the Euros. [France] are so strong; even if they put a second or third XI out, still they can fight to win Europe. But you have to believe. If we are playing as a team, that are going in one direction, really we can achieve something."

Today, Poland pack their bags and begin their trip to Germany for UEFA Euro 2024.

Squad up! Today Poland pack their bags and begin their trip to Germany for UEFA EURO 2024. pic.twitter.com/5Nq0gIRzqc

— PSN Futbol (@PSN_Futbol) June 11, 2024

Poland's squad is gearing up for a challenging tournament with matches against Austria and France following their opener against the Netherlands. Despite being underdogs, Lewandowski believes teamwork and determination can lead to success.

"If we are playing as a team, that are going in one direction, really we can achieve something," he concluded. "I don't know what that means in the end, but in football, everything is possible."