Thomas Muller Set to Depart Bayern Munich Following 25-Year Tenure

An era is concluding at Bayern Munich as Thomas Muller revealed his intention to leave the club when his contract expires this summer, marking the end of an extraordinary 25-year relationship with the German giants, as confirmed in an official...

Thomas Muller Set to Depart Bayern Munich Following 25-Year Tenure
An era is concluding at Bayern Munich as Thomas Muller revealed his intention to leave the club when his contract expires this summer, marking the end of an extraordinary 25-year relationship with the German giants, as confirmed in an official statement on Saturday.

The 35-year-old announced his departure through an open letter to fans, released on Saturday, just a day after Bayern's 3-1 victory over Augsburg. His last matches with the club will take place at this summer's FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. "This is not a day like any other," Muller expressed. "It has been an incredible journey, full of unforgettable experiences and triumphs. I am grateful to have had this career at my boyhood club."

Muller began his journey at Bayern's academy in 2000 at the age of ten, progressing through the youth system to become one of the club's most iconic players. Since making his senior debut in 2008, he has set a record with 743 competitive appearances, scoring 247 goals and providing 273 assists.

His impressive accolades include 12 Bundesliga titles, six German Cups, two UEFA Champions League titles, two FIFA Club World Cups, and the 2014 FIFA World Cup with Germany.

Although Muller continues to find joy on the pitch and is open to extending his role at Bayern, he revealed that the club has chosen not to offer him a new contract beyond this season. "Even though it wasn't my personal wish, I respect the club's decision. I know it wasn't easy for those responsible," he remarked.

Bayern chairman Jan-Christian Dreesen praised Muller's contributions, calling him "one of the greatest personalities this club has ever had." Sporting director Max Eberl emphasized the "honest and respectful" nature of their discussions, while President Herbert Hainer noted: "Thomas is the epitome of a Bavarian fairytale career."

Though his future plans are still unclear, Muller’s immediate goal is evident: "We will give everything to bring the Bundesliga title back to Munich and achieve our dream of the 'Finale Dahoam.'" Bayern intends to commemorate Muller's legacy with a farewell match, highlighting his extraordinary impact on the club.

Ramin Sohrabi for TROIB News

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