DÜSSELDORF (GERMANY), Jan. 21 (DPA / EP) –
The German Lukas Podolski will return to the club that saw him grow as a footballer but not as a player, according to the German first division club said Tuesday.
The Colony explained that they will jointly elaborate a concept that contemplates a function for “Poldi” within the institution yet to be specified. “A short-term cooperation was agreed, as well as the incorporation of Lukas into the club after his career ends,” the club said.
“Lukas is an idol for a whole generation of Cologne fans and he will always find an open door in the club,” said the president of the institution, Werner Wolf. “We would like to take advantage of his love for the Colony and at the same time accompany Lukas in the very personal and important steps in his transition from the active career to the later era.”
Podolski, 34, was enthusiastic. “I am looking forward to planning how I can support Cologne in the future. Cologne is, was and continues to be my home and Cologne is my club,” said the German, who joined Cologne at age 10 and played in the first team in the seasons 2003-2006 and 2010-2012.
The international was crowned world champion in Brazil 2014 and defended in 130 matches the shirt of Germany. He also had seasons at Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe of Japan. A return to Turkey is being considered as a player, since he has had conversations with the Antalyaspor club.