In 2017, merely two years following his departure from Arsenal, Lukas Podolski established the Ice Cream United brand. Subsequently, in 2018, he inaugurated the first kebab sandwich restaurant named Mangal Doner, deriving inspiration from his stint with Galatasaray in Turkey, the birthplace of this culinary delight. Within a span of few years, the Mangal Doner brand proliferated across Germany with 30 restaurants. According to The Sun on February 26th, Podolski’s entrepreneurial endeavors elevated his assets to approximately $225 million.
Podolski draws parallels between his culinary venture and a renowned American fast-food brand, stating, “If you order from them, you’ll end up paying as much as at my restaurant, or even more. However, what you receive is merely junk and lacks quality.”
Podolski, renowned for his international exploits, netted 49 goals in 130 international appearances, ranking third in terms of goal-scoring for Germany, trailing behind Miroslav Klose (71 goals) and Gerd Muller (68 goals). His crowning achievement with the German national team was winning the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. However, contrary to his international zenith, Podolski’s club career hasn’t been as illustrious. He has played for Cologne, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Inter Milan, Galatasaray, Vissel Kobe, and Antalyaspor, clinching one Bundesliga title, one FA Cup, and several other domestic cups.
Since 2021, Podolski has plied his trade for Gornik Zabrze in Poland, his country of birth before relocating to Germany. The 38-year-old forward has amassed 222 goals in 650 club appearances.
In addition to his endeavors in football and entrepreneurship, Podolski has spearheaded a music festival, established a sports center, and organized a celebrity football tournament to foster interaction with fans.