Getting to know the stars: Lukas Podolski

Galatasaray forward Lukas Podolski joined us in a live Q&A on the UEFA Champions League Facebook page as part of this season's campaign to get closer to the stars.

Who is your best friend at Galatasaray?

Podolski: Ali Kemertaş (Photographer), Bülent Çelik (Cook), Veli Muğlı (Kit Manager).

 Who is the best footballer right now and of all time?

Podolski: Right now Messi. Of all time... Ronaldo, the Brazilian striker.

Best moment of your career?

Podolski: My best moment has been winning the FIFA World Cup.

What do you think about Galatasaray's chances against Benfica?

Podolski: All games start 0-0, you know. If we can repeat our 2nd half performance against Atlético against Benfica too, I think we have a good chance against them. We have to go step by step. We have faith in ourselves. Our target is to reach the next round.

Best player you have played with?

Podolski: I can't pick just one player. Even when we won the World Cup with Germany, our group was strong. Our players and staff were all together. That was one of the main reasons why we won the World Cup.

How much are you enjoying Turkey and what are your goals this season?

 Podolski: I am enjoying it so far. Everything is great. Galatasaray is a great club and Istanbul is an amazing city. The mentality of the people is nice too. Club staff is working hard and they are friendly too. I hope we'll be together at least for three years, win trophies and have so much fun. Because football is not just about the trophies. There are more important things than winning trophies.

Who was your idol growing up?

Podolski: The Brazilian Ronaldo, because he was so fast. He used to control the ball and drive to the goal as quickly as possible. He always had an eye for goal. For me he was one of the best players in history.

What are your first impressions of the Galatasaray fans?

Podolski: They are amazing: crazy, friendly and loud! 

Read more from Podolski on the official UEFA Champions League Facebook page