- Podolski is planning an early retirement game.
Lukas Podolski is set to play a farewell match several months before what could be the final mandatory game of his career. The 2014 FIFA World Cup winner will host former teammates in a match in Cologne on October 10. The game will be broadcast on free-to-air TV channel ProSieben.
The 39-year-old is currently playing for Polish club Gornik Zabrze. However, he has not yet confirmed whether he will retire after the 2024/25 season.
"Once More in Red and White"
Podolski has represented Germany in 130 international matches and is a fan favorite, particularly at his former club 1. FC Cologne. He has played for various clubs, including FC Bayern Munich, FC Arsenal in England, and Inter Milan in Italy.
The match in Cologne's stadium will be titled "Our Number 10 Returns - Once More in Red and White". Expected attendees include teammates from the 2014 World Cup-winning team, coaches Jogi Löw and Hansi Flick, and former teammates from various clubs.
Podolski expresses gratitude
"Cologne as a city, the club, the fans - they've given me so much and supported me," Podolski is quoted as saying in a ProSieben statement. "I just wanted to come back and play this game to say thank you. Thank you to the city of Cologne. Thank you to the fans. Thank you to the club. Thank you to everyone who's been there with me."
Lukas Podolski, being a man of many talents, has played for several notable clubs besides 1. FC Cologne, such as FC Bayern Munich, FC Arsenal, and Inter Milan. Regarding his future, Podolski, a man of many talents playing for Polish club Gornik Zabrze, has not yet confirmed if he will retire after the 2024/25 season.
