Aleks Ławniczak: A Steady Climb Through Polish Football

Aleks Ławniczak has built his career step by step, following a path typical of many Polish defenders who earn their place through consistency rather than noise. Born in 1999, he came through the youth system at Warta Poznań, a club known for giving opportunities to disciplined, hard-working players. His early development was shaped by a strong emphasis on defensive fundamentals — positioning, timing, and reading the game — qualities that would later define his style at the senior level.

His breakthrough came at Warta, where he matured during the club’s rise back to the Ekstraklasa. Despite his young age, he quickly earned trust for his calm decision-making and reliability in high-pressure moments. Coaches valued his ability to absorb tactical instructions and adapt, whether operating centrally or covering wider defensive zones.

In 2022, Ławniczak made the move to Zagłębie Lubin, a club recognized for investing in players with growth potential. At Lubin, he entered an environment focused on building a modern, balanced defensive structure. His progression has been marked by improved ball circulation, better involvement in the first phase of build-up, and increased confidence in leading the back line when required.

Off the pitch, Ławniczak is seen as a grounded, disciplined professional — the type of player who prizes preparation and stability. His development has been steady but upward, and at just over mid-twenties, he is entering the phase in which many defenders reach their prime. For Zagłębie, he represents both reliability in the present and potential for the future.

Interview: Aleks Ławniczak

– Zagłębie is one of the most exciting teams to watch this season. How would you assess the team’s current form, and what do you think has surprised the fans the most?

Aleks Ławniczak: I think the biggest surprise for the fans has been the number of goals we’ve been scoring. We know that in previous seasons we didn’t spoil supporters with our attacking output, so this is definitely something new for them. This season we’ve had games where we scored five or six goals, and that’s a huge difference. And from a defender’s perspective — when you score a lot, defending also becomes a bit easier.

– Many people say Zagłębie could be the “dark horse” of the season. Inside the team, do you feel you can really fight for something big?

Ławniczak: You can definitely feel it, especially because we’re winning matches. Regularly picking up points creates a completely different atmosphere. It’s nothing like the previous seasons, when there was this belief that the only realistic scenario for Zagłębie was fighting to avoid relegation. This year we’re showing that none of us want to be part of a relegation battle — we want more. And I hope that becomes reality.

– So the results are there, the atmosphere is there. How does it look inside the dressing room? Do you talk among yourselves about fighting for European spots?

Ławniczak: The atmosphere is really good. But we don’t want to make any declarations. We focus on the next match — that’s the most important thing. We’ll see what comes later.

– How is your cooperation with coach Leszek Ojrzyński? What has changed since he arrived, and what are the most important guidelines he gives you as defenders?

Ławniczak: One big plus is that we train in specific units — defensive, offensive — which really changes your perspective on certain things during training. The coach is known for leading teams with a “firm hand,” and I don’t mean fear — I mean respect. After the match against Lech, I said that some players in our squad have started to actually enjoy defending. And that’s one of coach Ojrzyński’s biggest strengths.

– But is there room for fun? Can coach Ojrzyński joke around at training?

Ławniczak: Absolutely. He has a fantastic sense of humor, he understands the dressing room, he knows exactly what we need at any moment. When seriousness is needed — it’s serious. When fun is needed — we have fun. He finds the perfect balance.

– When you exploded in form at Warta Poznań, many believed you could join an even bigger club. Looking back — were you expecting a big move, or were you focused on steady development?

Ławniczak: I don’t regret anything. I’m at Zagłębie, I’m still growing as a player. The last period wasn’t easy, but tough times build your character — both as a footballer and as a person.

– Where do you see yourself in five years? Ekstraklasa, abroad, or do you have a specific destination in mind?

Ławniczak: I really don’t look that far ahead. I only think about what’s coming on Saturday.

– Do you have a favourite league you follow and think you’d like to play in someday?

Ławniczak: Not really, honestly — believe me. I watch only as much football as I need to: Poland national team matches, big Champions League games, and that’s about it. I don’t spend my free time watching every possible league. I’m very selective.

– As a defender, who has been the toughest striker to mark in the Ekstraklasa — and why?

Ławniczak: Funny enough, I was thinking about this recently. This season it’s hard to pick someone, but throughout my career the toughest opponent was probably Erik Exposito from Śląsk Wrocław. We had many battles — he’s tall, strong, fast, technically good. A complete striker.

– What is the Zagłębie Lubin dressing room like from the inside? Who are the leaders, who brings the energy, and who’s the biggest joker?

Ławniczak: We have a really great dressing room — very loud, and not just because of the Polish players, but also the foreign ones. Nothing needs fixing; the atmosphere builds itself. As for the leaders — definitely Damian Dąbrowski and Michał Nalepa.

– The upcoming match against Widzew Łódź always brings emotions. What do you expect from that game and what will be crucial to take points?

Ławniczak: Determination, tactical discipline, and a clear game plan will be key. We need to defend well and attack well. Score one more goal than the opponent — and I hope that’s exactly what happens on Saturday.