In a wide-ranging interview with US broadcaster CBS Sports, legendary Bayern Munich player Thomas Müller discussed various topics, including his upcoming departure from his long-time club. He revealed that he might consider ending his playing career soon if he doesn`t find what he calls the `perfect solution` for his future.
Müller is currently participating in the FIFA Club World Cup with Bayern. After this tournament, he will become a free agent, as the Bavarian club chose not to extend his contract.
Speaking about what comes next, the 35-year-old stated, “I want to figure it out in the next couple of weeks. But if there is not the perfect solution for me, maybe I will decide to end my career. Let’s see what happens. I try to feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations as well.”
This marks a significant transition after a 17-year tenure with the record German champions. While Müller was keen to stay, he harbors no resentment towards the club`s decision-makers and offered more insight into the situation.
“In the end, it didn`t hurt me. The relationship between a club and a player – no matter how special it is – is based on business or football decisions,” Müller explained.
Müller`s career has been incredibly successful, boasting an extensive collection of trophies, including 13 Bundesliga titles, two UEFA Champions Leagues, and a FIFA World Cup. Despite this, he singled out his goal against Chelsea in the 2012 Champions League final held at the Allianz Arena – a match Bayern eventually lost on penalties – as the `craziest moment` of his career.
Müller`s goal in the 2012 Champions League final was a moment of immense intensity, despite the eventual loss.
“It was at home in Munich, and there was so much tension going into the final. We were dominant but we didn’t score. And then I scored in the 83rd minute, and it was just an explosion in the stadium and the city. When you look into the eyes of my teammates and mine – it was the most intense moment of my career.”
Even if Müller continues playing beyond this summer, he is approaching the end of his career and will eventually transition away from playing football. However, he seems undecided about his post-playing path.
“I’m very open-minded for everything that comes. I always try to focus on what is immediately next,” the Bayern No.25 commented. “Now I’m a football player. I only think about preparing for training tomorrow. I try not to think too much about my future. When the day comes that I stop, I want to understand exactly what it is that I miss about football.”
