Lukas Podolski has admitted departing London last summer was not what he had wished for. 

The German star brought an end to his Arsenal career in July after agreeing to join Turkish giants Galatasaray.

Podolski spent his final two seasons at the club frustrated by lack of playing time despite winning the World Cup with Germany in 2014.

According to the 30-year-old, fear of missing out on participation at Euro 2016 is what forced him to say goodbye to the Gunners.

“I really like the city here and Galatasaray fans are really passionate.” Podolski told UEFA Champions League Magazine

“Honestly, I did not want to leave Arsenal but I could not have another season of not playing. I want to be there [at Euro 2016] next summer so we decided it was best for me to move away.”

Süper Lig champions Galatasaray agreed to pay Arsenal £2.1 million for three consecutive seasons as part of the initial £1.8 million deal which saw the forward move to Turkey.

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