Lech Poznan announced on July 8, 2026, that 18‑year‑old central midfielder Sammy Dudek will spend the 2026/27 season on loan at Union Skierniewice. The decision was made public on Wednesday, and the loan aims to give the young talent regular first‑team minutes in the second tier.

Why did Lech Poznan choose to loan him out?

The club sees Dudek’s potential as needing real‑match experience beyond reserve football. After four first‑team appearances and a strong academy record, he requires consistent starts that the Ekstraklasa schedule can’t guarantee. Sporting director Tomasz Rząsa emphasized that loans are a standard development tool for young players.

What experience does Sammy Dudek bring?

Born in 2008 in Germany, Dudek has spent five years in the Kolejorz academy. He won the Polish U‑15 championship in 2022, finished runner‑up in 2023, and later captured the U‑19 title. In the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons he helped Lech win the reserve league championship. In a recent friendly against Zeleziarne Podbrezova (3‑1) he played 45 minutes on the right wing and scored after a pass from Joel Pereira.

What does the loan mean for Dudek’s future?

A year at Union Skierniewice should give Dudek a regular spot and allow him to hone his skills in I‑Liga competition. The club plans for him to return more confident and ready to fight for a place in the first team. In May, Rząsa already mentioned further loans, including midfielder Tymoteusz Gmur, indicating a broader youth‑development strategy.

Who else might leave Lech soon?

In addition to Dudek, 24‑year‑old Filip Szymczak is undergoing medical tests at Zagłębie Lubin and is set to join the “Coppermen” permanently. This move shows Lech is both loaning out and selling players to balance the squad and finances. All actions fit the club’s long‑term plan to stay among Ekstraklasa’s elite.

What are fans and media expecting?

Supporters hope Dudek will return stronger and ready for a regular starting role. Media outlets highlight that loans offer rapid development, especially at his age. If he maintains form, he could soon become a staple in Lech’s attack, and his performances in Skierniewice will be closely monitored by the coaching staff.