Lukas Podolski has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 40, simultaneously becoming the owner of Polish club Gornik Zabrze. The former Germany international concluded his playing career with a Polish Cup victory with Zabrze, a club he joined in 2021. Podolski revealed his decision through an emotional video posted on his Instagram profile.
He spent the last five seasons with Gornik Zabrze, making 122 appearances and scoring 23 goals for the club. The culmination of his time there saw them lift the Polish Cup, providing a fitting end to his career on the pitch. Podolski had already acquired a controlling stake in the club last December, setting the stage for this dual announcement.
The forward’s career spanned several prominent clubs, including Arsenal and Inter Milan, as well as representing the German national team with distinction. He was a key member of the Germany squad that won the 2014 FIFA World Cup, earning 130 caps and scoring 49 goals for his country. His time at Arsenal, from 2012 to 2014, saw him contribute 19 Premier League goals, while his stint at Inter in 2015 was less impactful, featuring in a limited number of Serie A matches.
Podolski’s statement on social media read, “A chapter closes. A new era begins…”. He expressed gratitude for his career and wished himself luck in his new role as club owner. By taking ownership of Gornik Zabrze, Podolski is returning to the club where his footballing journey began, effectively completing a full circle. This transition marks a significant shift for the former international, moving from the pitch to the boardroom, where he will aim to build on the recent success achieved as a player.
This move allows Podolski to directly influence the future of a club he clearly holds affection for, leveraging his experience and passion for the game in a new capacity. The club confirmed the details of his ownership and retirement, signaling a new chapter for both Podolski and Gornik Zabrze.
