Thomas Müller felt it was too early to call time on his career after this season. The 34-year-old veteran extended his contract with Bayern Munich for at least another year, even though he is no longer guaranteed a starting spot in the twilight of his career.
Thomas Müller, a mainstay at Bayern Munich for fifteen years, has become an iconic figure at the club's Säbener Strasse headquarters.
His recent interview with Sport Bild illuminated his contemplations about retirement, particularly after the European Championship set to be held in Germany this summer. However, Müller's enduring passion for football keeps him on the pitch.
Reflecting on his journey, Müller described the previous season at Bayern as tumultuous and the World Cup as a disappointment. He battled with physical issues from April to July, challenging his resolve. Yet, the return to pain-free form reignited his love for playing, a crucial factor in his decision to continue.
A pivotal moment came in a friendly against France last autumn, where Müller's performance, especially his goal in the 2-1 victory, solidified his desire to keep playing. The intense atmosphere of the match in Dortmund, reminiscent of the European Championship, and the thrill of scoring a decisive goal were exhilarating for Müller. These experiences led him to question why he should stop doing something he finds so enjoyable.
Müller acknowledges that starting games on the bench at Bayern is a reality of professional football. He believes in accepting the coach's decisions and suggests that the modern game might be too lenient at times. According to him, while coaching should not be inhumane, a certain level of toughness is necessary, and players must be resilient.
Amidst strong competition in Bayern's forward line, Müller remains confident in his ability to make a significant impact. He humbly compares his goal contributions to those of legends like Zinedine Zidane, recognizing that while he has achieved notable success, players like Messi and Zidane are in a league of their own. This self-awareness and respect for the game's greats underscore Müller's seasoned perspective as he continues his illustrious career at Bayern Munich.
