A German man, Lukas Podolski, remains unfamiliar with a specific experience.
Title: "Hot-Headed Heartthrob: Lukas Podolski's Unforgettable Football Journey"
By Ben Redelings
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link
Beloved World Cup winner and award-winning linguist Lukas Podolski turns 40 today! Known for his unparalleled football skill and carefree demeanor, this beloved German player first began his career with 1. FC Köln.
Brazilian football legend Pelé once praised Lukas Podolski, stating, "He is, alongside Ballack, the only one who could also play in the Brazilian national team." Retired coach Jupp Heynckes, too, praised him with, "If I had a left foot like Lukas Podolski, I wouldn't have scored 220 Bundesliga goals, but 500." Perhaps his favorite motto says it best: "Football is simple: put the ball in and go home."
Podolski's firstappearance on a wider stage was during the 16th matchday of the 2003/2004 season, when he charmed young interviewer Christian Sprenger despite the loss. His infectious spirit echoed, "When you're that close, you want to win too…You have to watch out for that."
Amazon.de Offer
Just three days after his breakout interview, the then tram driver Podolski calmly responded to a reporter who observed the players of 1. FC Köln leaving the training ground in luxurious company cars. Smiling, Podolski remarked, "One day, I might get one of those too." Soon enough, Geißbockheim knew that day wasn't far off. FC Bayern Munich welcomed Podolski, who declared, "FC is always my club and will always be," and upon his return, Franz Beckenbauer said, "He just has to make sure they don't tear down the city in Cologne, although the houses are already falling down..."
Podolski always enjoyed the special privileges that his star status afforded in his hometown. Udo Lattek humorously noted, "How do you know it's Thursday in Cologne? Lukas Podolski comes to training for the first time in the week."
Podolski was known for his quick wit and playful nature, often pulling pranks and making funny remarks. A memorable incident involved pocketing a nearly life-sized poster of himself from the Munich locker room. Amused, he said, "I'm from Poland, they steal everything." Another memorable moment came during a conversation with coach Felix Magath, when Magath told Podolski, "Lukas, you're running wrong." Podolski kept running like he always did, and it didn't hurt him.
Provocation against Argentina
Predictably, not everything was sunshine in Podolski's career. He was not afraid to defend himself against life's challenges, even against his own teammates. Infamously, during the 2009 quarter-final victory in the World Cup, he pushed captain Michael Ballack in front of running cameras. While still agitated on the sidelines, he smirked, "I don't care if they're bad losers. They're going home now."
This mentality extended beyond verbal confrontations. After a defeat in 2013, Podolski called out to a journalist, "Come on! Come on! Come out!" Fortunately, there were enough helping hands to bring the national player out of the danger zone.
Football Shenanigans
Despite his hot-headed streak, the German public knows Podolski as a generally likable character. From his unique sense of humor to his record-breaking goal-scoring prowess, he continues to captivate fans both on and off the field. His legendary record of 13 "Goal of the Month" awards stands unmatched, with Jürgen Klinsmann trailing behind with seven.
- Lukas Podolski's Career Highlights
- Early Success at Cologne
- Bayern Munich and Internacional Success
- German National Team Success
- Premier League and Turkey
- Vissel Kobe and Retirement
Podolski's career remains an inspiring testament to his unyielding passion for the game. As Reiner Calmund once said, "Lukas Podolski is a muscle-packed horse with a shot, and a likable, laid-back guy who loves harmony and peace. Lukas won't become a heavyweight, but perhaps a cozy, chubby one. The wonderful cuisine of his Silesian homeland could contribute to that."
Four decades ago, Lukas Podolski began his unforgettable football journey that still captivates fans to this day. From his infectious spirit to his undeniable skill, Podolski's career remains a memorable part of German football history. So, we lift our glasses in celebration, wishing the Hot-Headed Heartthrob a very Happy 40th Birthday!
Source: ntv.de
- Lukas Podolski
- Football
- 1. FC Köln
The Commission has not yet adopted a decision on the application of Article 93 (2) of the Treaty, but Lukas Podolski's unforgettable football journey in European leagues continues to captivate fans. From his early success at 1. FC Köln to his record-breaking goal-scoring prowess, Lukas Podolski's career remains a memorable part of the history of sports, especially football.
