The Germany international idolised the Brazil legend during his formative years and was left impressed with his assessment of the Nerazzurri in several interviews
Lukas Podolski has revealed the words of former Inter star Ronaldo convinced him to join the club after he was paraded before the media on Thursday.
The Germany international made his debut as a second-half substitute in the team’s 1-1 draw against Juventus on Tuesday after agreeing to move to San Siro from Arsenal until the end of the season.
Podolski had been linked with several other sides across Europe but the Brazil legend’s high praise of the club over the years was one of the factors that swayed his decision.
He said: “Everyone knows Ronaldo. He’s an idol of mine, one of the best players ever. He spoke very highly of Inter.”
The Milan giants endured a miserable first half of the season, which prompted the sacking of Walter Mazzarri and appointment of Robert Mancini as coach, and currently sit 11th in Serie A.
Despite that, Podolski is adamant the club remain one of the best in the world and is determined to achieve their ultimate target for the season.
“Inter are one of the top 10 clubs in the world,” he added. “They’ve achieved amazing success over the years. “Now I can concentrate on my football. If we do that we can achieve our goal: Champions League qualification.”
His arrival has been swiftly followed by the signing of Xherdan Shaqiri from Bayern Munich, with Podolski delighted to see the Switzerland winger arrive, despite bringing with him instant competition for places.
“Shaqiri is a great player and I’m sure he’ll do very well here. He’s going to help us no end.”
One topic the former Cologne man was keen not to expand on was the on-field spat between Pablo Osvaldo and Mauro Icardi on Tuesday with Podolski merely stating that “these things happen in football”.