Bayern Munich icon Thomas Müller will depart the club at the end of the current season, ending a remarkable 25-year journey with the Bundesliga giants. The 35-year-old confirmed the news via social media on Saturday, revealing that Bayern opted not to extend his contract, which expires this summer — a move Müller says was "not what I would have wished."

“The special connection to the club and our fantastic fans will always remain,” Müller wrote. “Even if the decision wasn't mine, I felt the appreciation from everyone involved.”

A Legendary Career Ends at Home - Bundesliga's most decorated player

Müller joined Bayern’s youth academy in 2000 at age 10, made his senior debut in 2008 under Jurgen Klinsmann, and went on to become the club’s all-time appearance leader with 743 matches. His trophy cabinet includes:

• 2 Champions League titles
• 12 Bundesliga titles
• 6 DFB-Pokal trophies
• 5 FIFA Club World Cups
• 1 FIFA World Cup (with Germany, 2014)

With 247 goals and 273 assists for Bayern, Müller’s legacy as one of the club’s greatest ever players is secure. Yet, in recent seasons, he’s found himself on the bench more often as Bayern transition to a younger core, prompting speculation about his future.

Farewell Match, MLS Move Looming?

Bayern Munich announced on Saturday that Müller will be honored with a testimonial match, and he will also feature in the FIFA Club World Cup in July. However, the club stopped short of offering a contract extension.

“Thomas Müller had the definition of a Bavarian fairytale career,” said Bayern president Herbert Hainer.

Born in Weilheim, Bavaria, Müller remained loyal to Bayern through his entire career — an increasingly rare feat in modern football. He hinted at a desire to continue playing but did not confirm his next move.

MLS Calling?

German media reports suggest Müller could move to Major League Soccer (MLS). His former Bayern teammate Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting, now with New York Red Bulls, said in March:

“Thomas is welcome here. You already speak English… I’m watching you.”

A New Chapter for Bayern & Müller

Bayern Sporting Director Max Eberl admitted the decision was "anything but easy" and emphasized that the club is “putting the focus on the future.”

Müller, who retired from international duty after UEFA Euro 2024, played 131 times for Germany, scoring 45 goals and lifting the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

As Bayern prepares for a Champions League quarter-final showdown against Inter Milan, an injury to Jamal Musiala may give Müller one final starring role on the European stage. Bayern currently sit nine points clear of rivals Bayer Leverkusen, though the defending champions have a game in hand.

What’s Next for Müller?

Will he cross the Atlantic to play in the MLS, or take up a backroom role at Bayern, where many believe he’s destined to return? Either way, the curtain is closing on one of football’s most iconic one-club careers.

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