MUNICH: Bayern Munich icon Thomas Mueller confirmed on Saturday that he will not receive a new contract from the club, marking the end of his remarkable 25-year journey with the Bundesliga giants at season’s end.
The 35-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, expressed via social media that the club’s decision was “not what I would have wished.” He mentioned that he disliked how the saga unfolded in public view in recent months, although he felt valued by those associated with Bayern following his extensive tenure.
Mueller commented on his strong connection to the club and the passionate fans, asserting that this bond will remain with him. Having risen through Bayern’s junior system, he boasts an impressive collection of accolades, including two Champions League trophies and 12 Bundesliga titles.
His current focus is on securing the league title for Munich and avenging losses this season by reaching the Champions League final, scheduled at the Allianz Arena.
That same day, Bayern publicly announced plans to hold a testimonial match for Mueller and revealed he will be participating in the Club World Cup in July. “Thomas Mueller’s career is the essence of a Bavarian fairytale,” stated club president Herbert Hainer.
Mueller, hailing from
Weilheim, joined Bayern at age 10, making his first appearance in 2008 under coach Jurgen Klinsmann against a team featuring current Bayern manager Vincent Kompany. As a one-club player, he holds the record for the most appearances at Bayern, with 743 matches and boasts an impressive tally of 247 goals and 273 assists.
In recent years, however, Mueller has found himself increasingly on the bench, stoking rumors of his potential departure. While he did not disclose his plans for next season, speculation has arisen regarding a move to the MLS, with former teammate Eric-Maxim Choupo Moting inviting him to join the New York Red Bulls.
Also having been a World Cup winner with Germany in 2014 and amassing 131 caps and 45 goals throughout his national team career before retiring post-Euro 2024, Mueller’s future in administration at the club once he retires has often been discussed.
[Bayern’s sporting director, Max Eberl], remarked that it was a challenging decision to part ways with Mueller, emphasizing, “we’re putting the focus on the future.” The team is set to play Inter Milan on Tuesday in the Champions League quarter-finals, with Munich holding a flush title race lead over defender champions Bayer Leverkusen.
