Patryk Dziczek captained Pogoń Szczecin for the first time in the Ekstraklasa match against Zagłębie Lubin. The central midfielder made his debut in the role after just four appearances in the Granatowo-Bordowe colours, as confirmed in a report for Radio Szczecin.
Dziczek admitted the coach's decision came as a surprise to him. "I was surprised. It is also a great honour for me, because after four matches I received the armband," said the new captain. In the match against Lubin, other team leaders Kamil Grosicki and Fredrik Ulvestad were on the bench. Linus Wahlqvist, another player with captaincy credentials, was unavailable due to injury.
Why was Dziczek given the armband?
Coach Jasmin Burić decided to call upon Patryk Dziczek's experience at a key point in the season. The club's new signing quickly integrated with the team and demonstrated the right leadership qualities on the pitch. The decision was made despite the presence of other, more decorated players in the squad. Dziczek stressed that the team is most important to him and he will always try to give his all. "It doesn't matter to me whether I play with the armband or not, I will certainly always give my heart for Pogoń," he added.
What is the captaincy situation in the squad?
Pogoń Szczecin currently has several players who can serve as captain. The regular rotation stems from injuries and the coach's tactical decisions. Linus Wahlqvist is one of the defensive pillars, but his return to the pitch depends on the rehabilitation process. Kamil Grosicki and Fredrik Ulvestad are experienced players who have also worn the armband this season. The current squad status, including the injury list, is available on our squad page.
What's next for the captain in the Polish Cup?
It is not excluded that Patryk Dziczek will again lead the team in the upcoming match. Pogoń Szczecin will face Śląsk Wrocław away in the Polish Cup on Thursday. The coach's decision will depend on many factors, including the form of the other players. The club has an important period ahead, and the full schedule of matches can be checked on our fixtures page.
What challenges does Pogoń face?
The team must cope with the absence of several key players. Currently sidelined are José Pozo, Nikolaos Botis and Rajmund Molnár. Their absence is felt in various areas of the pitch. The next test for Pogoń will be an away match against Lech Poznań, scheduled for 28 November 2026. Before that clash, the team has a chance to build positive momentum in the league and cup. The current position in the Ekstraklasa table can be followed in the standings section.
