Bayern Munich's most-capped player, Thomas Müller, is reportedly heading for the exit door after 17 incredible years. The German newspaper 'Süddeutsche Zeitung' broke the news that has shocked fans across the world.
Money talks in modern football, and Müller's €10+ million annual salary has become a sticking point. Bayern are tightening their belts after handing new deals to Joshua Kimmich, Manuel Neuer, and Alphonso Davies. Without revenue from this summer's Club World Cup, the German giants would actually be facing a loss in 2024/25.
At 35, Müller is no longer a regular starter at the Allianz Arena. He played just four minutes across both Champions League games against Celtic and only six minutes against Leverkusen. His Bundesliga season has mostly consisted of brief cameos from the bench.
A True Bayern Munich Legend Departs
The stats tell an incredible story. Müller has been at Bayern since he was 10 years old and has played 24 seasons for the club. He's scored 150 Bundesliga goals and sits fourth on the all-time Champions League appearance list – the only player in the top four to represent just one club.
He'll leave as Bayern's record appearance maker with a staggering 33 trophies to his name. Former Bayern coach Hansi Flick put it perfectly: "There will never be anyone else like him."
What made Müller special wasn't blistering pace or fancy skills. He was the "Raumdeuter" – the space interpreter who always found himself in the right place at the right time. In an era of perfect athletes, he was refreshingly different.
His impact goes beyond goals and assists. Known as "Radio Müller" for his constant on-field chatter, his leadership and locker room presence will be sorely missed. With Manuel Neuer (39) also approaching retirement, Bayern faces a leadership vacuum in the coming years.
What's Next for Müller?
Don't expect to see Müller in another Bundesliga shirt. Reports suggest he's eyeing a move to MLS, following former Germany teammate Marco Reus who joined LA Galaxy after leaving Dortmund.
An American adventure makes perfect sense. Müller still has plenty to offer on the pitch, and his engaging personality would be a hit with US fans. With the 2026 World Cup heading stateside, the timing couldn't be better for MLS to welcome a German football icon.
Before his farewell, Bayern fans are hoping for one final magical moment. With this year's Champions League final in Munich, could Müller bow out by lifting Europe's biggest prize in his hometown? For bettors eyeing Bayern's Champions League odds, the emotional factor of sending off a legend might just give the German side an extra edge.
Whatever happens, Müller leaves behind a legacy few can match. With 14.6 million Instagram followers and fans worldwide, his departure doesn't just weaken Bayern – it leaves a massive void in the Bundesliga's global appeal.
