Germany international Lukas Podolski has finally revealed that he in joining Arsenal, with the intention of winning trophies at the Emirates Stadium.
Podolski has been on fantastic form in 2011-12, bagging 18 goals and six assists in 28 appearances for FC Cologne in the German Bundesliga.
The highly-experienced 26-year-old striker has already earned 95 caps for the German national team, and is already sixth on Germany’s all-time scoring list with 43 goals, behind the likes of Karl-Heinz “Kalle” Rummenigge (45), Rudolf ‘Rudi’ Völler (47), Jürgen Klinsmann (47), Miroslav Klose (63) and Gerhard “Gerd” Müller (68).
Podolski scores as average of 0.45 goals per game for Die DFB-Elf, a better ratio than Michael Ballack (0.43) and Jürgen Klinsmann (.44).
In short, he’s an outstanding signing for Arsene Wenger and the Gunners, possessing both experience and quality, a lethal combination.
“Arsenal are a huge football club and the objective must be to win titles in the coming years,” said Podolski.
“I could have either continued at Koln or gone back to a top club. I had other offers but for me it was clear that I’d go to Arsenal. They have a great coach, a great stadium and great fans. And they have the same colors as Koln.”
What Podolski gives Arsenal
The addition of Podolski gives Arsenal yet another versatile attacker, who can play as a centre-forward, a left-midfielder or even as a support-striker.
Like Robin van Persie, Podolski possesses a lethal left foot, and can score from anywhere on the pitch.
In addition, he’s great at taking penalties and set-pieces.
All things considered, he’s tailor-made to play in Arsene Wenger’s system. In fact, I don’t think the Gunners could have found a better player to add to their books.
Will Podolski be playing in the UEFA Champions League next season?
At the moment, Arsenal are on 66 points, four points ahead of bitter north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United and five points clear of Chelsea, with just two English Premier League games remaining in 2011-12.
In other words, if Arsenal win, they’re in. Simple enough.
Remaining fixtures
May 5: Arsenal v Norwich City (Emirates Stadium)
May 13: West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal (The Hawthorns)
As you can see, the Gunners’ remaining fixtures are very winnable.
Premier League newcomers Norwich City are a much tougher task at Carrow Road, while West Bromwich Albion are one of the few clubs that are actually better away from home.
Thus, Arsenal are in pole position to qualify for next season’s Champions League, meaning that new signing Lukas Podolski will be playing on Europe’s biggest stage next season.
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