APPIANO GENTILE – New Nerazzurri signing Lukas Podolski revealed his reasons for joining Inter as he spoke to the press at his official unveiling today: “I’d like to thank Arsenal because I had a great time in London. However, in the latter stages of my time there I didn’t have many opportunities to play. I had positive meetings with Piero Ausilio and Roberto Mancini and decided to take the chance offered to me by Inter.”
The German forward was also asked if he’d sought the advice of any fellow compatriots who have played for the club in the past, such as Rummenigge, Klinsmann and Sammer, before joining: “I spoke with my family and friends, but no-one else. The decision to come here was entirely my own. I’d like to thank Ausilio and Mancini for bringing me to Milan. The connection I had with the boss was a big factor in my decision.
“I had other offers, but my meetings with Mancini were very positive right from the off. I’m delighted to be here. We have some important months ahead and we want to do as well as possible in all competitions,” continued Podolski.
On his best position: “I feel most comfortable playing as a number 10, but Mancini is a world-renowned coach and has a wealth of experience. I’ll give my all wherever he decides to play me. It’s not the position that counts but the performance you put in, as was the case in the second half of the Juve game.”
There was also a question about the heated exchange between Osvaldo and Icardi on Tuesday night: “These things happen on the pitch and the media have made a massive deal out of it. It’s the manager’s responsibility to decide how to handle these situations. My job is simply to do my best on the pitch. We put in a great performance in Turin and that’s what counts.”
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