Podolski snubbed multiple offers to move to Turkey
Germany’s World Cup winner Lukas Podolski has admitted he turned down a number of clubs to join Turkish Super Lig side Galatasaray.
The 30-year-old had fallen down the pecking order at Arsenal, but was expected back in training with the Gunners on 10 July, before the Turkish giants stepped up their efforts to acquire the Poland-born Germany international.
“I planned to be joining Arsenal on July 10, but during those days everything went very quickly,” Podolski admitted.
“A movement of the club and then we agreed. I received offers from many clubs, but Galatasaray’s proposal seduced me from the first moment.”
Podolski made just 13 appearances for Arsenal last season in all competitions, before moving on loan to Inter Milan in January.
Podolski put faith in Galatasaray
“The president and the coach handed me their trust during negotiations.” Podolski continued.
“Istanbul is a beautiful city, my family is very happy here. I’m going to give the fans of Galatasaray everything I can on the field.”
He has repaid the faith the Galatasaray board have shown him by rewarding the club with two goals in four Super Lig appearances so far this season.
Podolski has previously played for German sides Bayern Munich and Cologne.
