Former German international and world champion Lukas Podolski (40) plans to become the full owner of Górnik Zabrze, the Polish club he joined in 2021 and with whom he recently won the Polish Cup. Podolski, who already holds a significant stake in the club, announced, "Now I'm buying the rest," according to Bild.

The Historical Triumph

Górnik Zabrze secured a historic victory by winning the Polish Cup after a 54-year wait. In the final, they defeated Raków Częstochowa 2-0, with Podolski coming on as a substitute. This achievement is particularly significant for a club from Upper Silesia, where Podolski has strong roots.

The club celebrated the victory with an emotional tribute to Stanisław Oślizła (88), a club legend who captained Górnik in winning all six previous cup victories, including the last one in 1972.

The Decision Lies with the City Council

The city council of Zabrze will decide whether to transfer its share to Podolski. Podolski is critical of the model where many Polish clubs are owned by the city, arguing, "The city has other tasks. It should build stadiums, do other things, and develop infrastructure, not run a football club."

He emphasized that he is not a typical investor but a supporter who understands and speaks the club's language. "Football always belongs to the fans. I want to push the club forward."

An Uncertain Future as a Player

Podolski's future as a player is uncertain. His contract expires at the end of the season, and he has only started once in 17 league appearances this season, scoring no goals. "We'll see, it's still being considered how things will proceed for me," Podolski said.

A Club with Special Meaning

Podolski, who has represented Germany in 130 matches and won the World Cup, has always emphasized his Polish heritage. His connection with Górnik Zabrze, just three kilometers from his birthplace, is profound. He has already purchased more than eight percent of the club and become a co-owner.

Podolski has played 134 matches for Górnik, scoring 25 goals and providing 22 assists. Before joining Górnik, he played for clubs like Köln, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Galatasaray, Vissel Kobe, and Antalyaspor.