Szczesny confirmed he will not play against Russia

goalkeeper

has confirmed in a statement that he will not play in the 2022 World Cup qualifier against

after the country invaded Ukraine.

The Polish national team announced that they will not travel to Russia for the World Cup qualifier after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The decision was backed by players such as Robert Lewandowski, and now Szczesny has backed the move. Talks have focused on the match between Sweden and the Czech Republic, the other two teams that are in the World Cup play-off bracket, and UEFA is expected to make a decision soon. Szczesny posted a statement on his Instagram and announced that he will not be present in this game.

“My wife was born in Ukraine, there is Ukrainian blood running through the veins of my son, part of our family is still in Ukraine, a lot of my workers are Ukrainian and they’re all great people.

“Seeing the suffering on their faces and fear for their country makes me realise I can’t stand still and pretend that nothing has happened.

“The moment Putin decided to invade Ukraine he declared war not only on Ukraine but also on all the values Europe stands for. Liberty, Independence but most of all Peace.

“On 26th of March we were supposed to play against Russia in a play-off match for 2022 World Cup in Qatar. And although my heart breaks while writing this, my conscience will not let me play.

“Representing your country is the biggest honour in a footballers career but its still a choice. I refuse to play against players who choose to represent the values and principles of Russia!

“I refuse to stand on the pitch, wearing the colours of my country and listen to the national anthem of Russia! I refuse to take part in a sporting even that legitimises the actions of the Russian government.

“I know my impact may only be symbolic but I call on FIFA and UEFA to take action and hold Russian federation accountable for their actions.”

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