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Lukas Podolski Bids Arsenal Farewell, Joins Inter Milan
By Josh Sippie
The first Arsenal transfer of the January window is complete, with Lukas Podolski having landed in Milan to sign a loan deal with Inter. While it is only a loan deal, it has the option to become a permanent deal for just under $8m at the end of the season.
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Podolski’s situation has been a tough one to come to terms with because he has made his love for Arsenal and his desire to play for them well known through various social media outlets, but Arsene Wenger never found a place for him in the starting XI.
The German international posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram account to Arsenal fans worldwide, writing:
"I can’t express in words my gratitude towards Arsenal fans for all they have done for me in my years in London! Please know my heart always holds a place for you. I’ve loved every minute playing for Arsenal & I hope I have left my mark on the club & fans alike. Hopefully we shall meet again! COYG #AFC #RedArmy#Fans #Poldi #Gunner #Thanks"
In all likelihood, Podolski won’t be putting on the Arsenal red again. He’ll get plenty of playing time for Inter, whereas the cluttered front lines of Arsenal never found room for him.
Unfortunately Podolski has to be chalked up to another failed experiment by Wenger. He was signed in 2012 for a hefty fee of $16m and has made just 39 EPL starts since that time. That first season he played in 33 matches, putting up eleven goals and adding ten assists.
Podolski looked imposing when he suited up for Arsenal, but he just never fit into the grand scheme of it all.
All the best, Poldi!
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