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Lukas Josef Podolski, born in 1985 in Gliwice, Poland, recently announced his retirement from professional football, ending his career of almost two decades. His last testimonial game, hosted at FC Köln, his first professional club, held tributes by fans and players. Players such as Manuel Neuer, Mats Hummels, Per Mertesacker, Hansi Flick, and Jogi Löw participated in front of around 50,000 fans in RheinEnergieStadion.
Podolski’s career took off in 2003, with his Bundesliga debut for FC Köln, where he soon became a starting striker. During his time at Köln, he scored 87 goals in 181 games played. Upon transferring to Bayern Munich, he was able to continue his success. Most of his fame, however, stems from his international career, scoring 49 goals for the national German team as well as playing an important role in the win of the World Cup in 2014.
After the final whistle was blown at his testimonial game, ending 5-3 for Köln, the 39-year-old addressed the fans, thanking everyone for their support and showing gratitude to everyone who came. “It really touches me that so many fans would like to come to enjoy this special evening with me. It is an honour for me to wear the Billygoat on my chest once more in front of a full house.” Rumors about him becoming a coach have already surfaced as fans wonder how he will continue.
As part of the celebration of his last match, he was seen with pyrotechnic fireworks, which are forbidden strictly in Germany in Stadiums. Not only will Podolski most likely face charges and fines but he is also being called a bad role model.
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