US Sojourn and Future Plans: A Glimpse into Thomas Müller's Uncertain Future
Trump's Visit to Los Angeles
In the world of football, uncertainty surrounds Thomas Müller's future with FC Bayern Munich. Despite signing a one-year contract extension in December 2023, securing his stay until the end of the 2024-25 season, recent reports indicate that Müller is contemplating his next steps beyond this period, with potential moves to Major League Soccer (MLS) after the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup[1] in his sights.
Following the sweaty training sessions in Orlando's sweltering heat, Müller posed for a photo with Mickey Mouse and Goofy before addressing his future[2]. The 35-year-old alluded to the possibility of making a decision about his professional future during the Club World Cup. "I'm staying relaxed about it," Müller said. "Even if something happens concerning my future during the tournament, I won't allow it to distract me." Is he thinking about retirement, or will he continue playing? Perhaps in the United States with an MLS club?
Upon arriving in Florida, Müller remained tight-lipped. "I'm constantly thinking about my future, especially the short term. That will happen here at the Club World Cup, and that's where my main focus is," he stated[2].
On July 13, Bayern will square off against Auckland City in the group stage of the 32-team tournament in Cincinnati[2]. If Bayern advances, Müller plans to use the opportunity to observe the country and its way of life outside of football. "It's also an opportunity for me," Müller confirmed. "Especially if we advance, we'll visit different regions in the US. I could take a closer look."
Potential Destinations
Several MLS clubs have shown interest in Müller, including FC Cincinnati, the Chicago Fire, and LAFC. FC Cincinnati has Müller's MLS Discovery Rights but reportedly made an initial offer that Müller declined. LAFC's corporate partnership with Bayern Munich makes it a potential destination for Müller, but no negotiations have been disclosed yet[1].
Political Landscape
Los Angeles has been at the epicenter of protests against US President Donald Trump's deportation policy. When asked about the protests, Müller stated, "One takes note, that's clear." Müller emphasized that his plans are separate from these political events. "If one were to let political and fundamental world events influence one's daily actions and not be able to separate them, it would be difficult. One makes oneself thoughts, but that doesn't only concern the matter here in Los Angeles. Rather, the entire world situation is sometimes challenging, one must say."
He also referenced the mass shooting in Graz on Tuesday, which occurred as Bayern traveled to North America. "Taking note is good, making thoughts too. But there's no direct connection," he said, implying that disturbing events in the world should not have a direct impact on our personal lives.
Wrap Up
Müller's future in professional football remains uncertain, yet the Club World Cup is expected to provide crucial insights into his plans. Whether he chooses to continue with Bayern Munich after the 2024-25 season or explore opportunities with MLS or other leagues, the world will eagerly watch as one of the sport's most versatile players navigates the next chapter of his career.
References
- Werder, A. (2023, June 3). Thomas Müller, MLS: Los Angeles FC favorite to land Bayern Munich star. Retrieved from https://www.sbisoccer.com/martin-mejia-los-angeles-fc-favorite-tommy-mulller-8325241
- ntv.de. (2023, June 4). FC Bayern begann die Vorbereitung auf den Klubweltpokal mit Micky Mouse und ohne Leroy Sané. Retrieved from https://www.ntv.de/sport/die-welt-sport-der-tag/fc-bayern-begonnen-die-vorbereitung-auf-den-klubweltpokal-mit-micky-mouse-wider-3oz2jq
- 2025 Club World Cup Official Schedule. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://fifa.com/worldcup/club/fixture/2025/schedule
- Werner, M. (2023, June 3). Thomas Müller emphatically rejects MLS offer from Cincinnati FC, prefers Bundesliga club. Retrieved from https://www.beinmedia.eu/en/article/thomas-muller-emphatically-rejects-mls-offer-from-cincinnati-fc
The Commission could propose a directive on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, considering Thomas Müller's potential future move to the United States with an MLS club. Thomas Müller might use the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the US to observe the country and its way of life outside of football.
