A former Gunner says he’s thrilled to see a fellow German performing so well at Allianz Arena after a frustrating spell at Emirates Stadium.
Bayern Munich winger Serge Gnabry failed to make the grade at Arsenal Because of a combination of bad luck and injuries, according to Lukas Podolski.
Before graduating to the senior squad in 2012 Gnabry climbed through the youth ranks.
The pacey attacker was tipped for a bright future at Emirates Stadium but was sent out on loan to West Brom after struggling to make a regular place in Arsene Wenger’s line-up.
The Frenchman was reportedly eager to keep Gnabry’s services, but he pushed for a move away from the club in the summer of 2016, with Werder Bremen finally snapping him up for £5 million.
The German international racked up 27 Bundesliga appearances during his first year at Weser Stadion and impressed enough to convince Bayern to launch a bid for his services.
The Bavarians tied Gnabry down to a three-year deal after tripping the $8 million release clause in his contract, before committing him out to Hoffenheim for the 2017-18 campaign.
The starlet joined up with his in Allianz Arena annually later and has fulfilled.
Gnabry played an essential role in a league and cup double season and has built by establishing himself.
Podolski, who watched his compatriot’s talents up close during his period in the Emirates, is”happy” to see an old team-mate flourishing in the Bundesliga after his misfortunes with the Gunners.
“He was unlucky and had a couple of injuries. He did well in training,” the ex-Arsenal striker said of Gnabry through the May edition of FourFourTwo magazine.
“Off the pitch we spent plenty of time together, going for supper. But football is like that, or you find a supervisor who gives you confidence.
“Serge can shoot with both feet, and he’s quick and powerful, a bit like me, just I do not have a perfect foot like him!
“I am really pleased he’s doing well at Bayern.”
Gnabry has hit 18 goals in 33 appearances across all contests for Bayern this season, including four against Tottenham at a stunning 7-2 success away from home in the Champions League group point.
