Lukas Podolski doesn't expect to start every game for Arsenal[GETTY]
Welbeck is poised to make his Gunners debut on Saturday against Manchester City following his £16million move to the Emirates on deadline day.
Though Podolski has made 70 appearances during his time with the Gunners, Welbeck's arrival has put extra pressure on the Germany international.
But Podolski accepts this and believes he will have to work hard to be a regular starter.
"Initially, it's a difficult situation for me," Podolski told Kicker.
Arsenal Transfer Round up - summer 2014
When you buy new players for a lot of money, they have an advantage because they will play
Lukas Podolski
"When you buy new players for a lot of money, they have an advantage because they will play.
"But we've got a long season ahead of us and we'll see what happens. When I am in top shape, I am a perfect fit for the Arsenal team and I see myself in the first XI. That's what I work towards.
"I am not sure [but] I hope that that's the case."
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