Football manager, 49, dies after collapsing as Robert Lewandowski and Matty Cash pay tribute

Callum Vurley
Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:32:44 +0000

Jacek Magiera, the assistant coach of Poland's men's national team, has died at the age of 49 after reportedly collapsing during a morning run.

The 49-year-old was rushed to the Military Clinical Hospital in Wroclaw but medical staff were unable to save him.

The Polish Football Association confirmed the devastating news on Friday morning, stating it had "received with deep sadness and immense regret the news of the death of Jacek Magiera."

The federation requested that "the privacy and peace of his loved ones be respected during this very difficult time."

Magiera had served as assistant to the national side since last July.

Magiera enjoyed a distinguished two-decade association with Legia Warsaw, spending nine years at the Polish giants as a centre-back before transitioning into management.

His crowning achievement came during the 2016/17 season when he guided Legia through their Champions League group stage campaign.

The club secured a memorable 1-0 victory over Sporting CP at home and earned a creditable 3-3 draw against Real Madrid.

Those results helped Legia finish third in their group, securing passage to the Europa League knockout rounds.

His playing and coaching career saw him dedicate twenty years to shaping the club's history with unwavering commitment.

Polish FA President Cezary Kulesza expressed his profound shock at the sudden loss in a personal tribute.

"With great sadness and disbelief, I received the news of Jacek Magiera's death," he said. "It is difficult to find the right words in the face of such a sudden and completely unexpected loss."

Kulesza praised Magiera's character alongside his professional accomplishments.

"Jacek was an exceptional footballer, an excellent coach, but above all, a very good man on whom one could always rely," the president added. "I wish to extend my condolences to the family and loved ones."

He also urged media outlets to respect the grieving family's privacy.

Trenerze, nie tak miało być…

Wyrazy współczucia dla rodziny i najbliższych. pic.twitter.com/k3tUp4jFbH
— Robert Lewandowski (@lewy_official) April 10, 2026

Legia Warsaw issued a heartfelt statement mourning one of their most devoted servants.

"With immense sadness and regret, we received the news of the death of Jacek Magiera – former footballer and coach of Legia Warsaw, who for 20 years with dedication and passion co-created the history of our club," the club said.

"He will forever remain in our memory as a man full of commitment and heart for football."

Jacek💔 You were such an amazing guy always with a smile, You will be missed dearly 💔 RIP Legend 💔 pic.twitter.com/luKB5vLTt1
— Matty Cash (@mattycash622) April 10, 2026

Aston Villa and Poland international Matty Cash also paid tribute on social media, writing: "Jacek. You were such an amazing guy always with a smile. You will be missed dearly. RIP legend."

Poland captain Robert Lewandowski said: "Coach, this wasn't how it was supposed to be...

"Condolences to the family and loved ones."