Thomas Muller reveals he nearly joined Barcelona before MLS move
Before finalising his move to Vancouver Whitecaps, Thomas Muller revealed he had seriously considered a switch to Barcelona. The Bayern Munich legend admitted that if the current coach Hansi Flick had picked up the phone, things might have gone very differently.
The veteran forward described the Catalan club as “top-level” and said he could have “imagined a future” there under the right circumstances.
A 25-year Bayern journey comes to a close
Muller ended a remarkable 25-year spell at Bayern Munich this summer, leaving behind a legacy unmatched in the club’s history. Having joined the youth academy at age 10, he went on to score 250 goals in 756 appearances, the most ever for a Bayern player. His senior career began in 2008, and by 2009-10, under Louis van Gaal, he was a regular starter, racking up 19 goals that season alone.
The rise of Musiala and Muller’s changing role
In recent seasons, Muller found himself phased out of the starting XI due to the rise of young star Jamal Musiala. At 36, and with his influence on the pitch waning, Muller began to explore opportunities beyond Munich. His decision to leave was made easier by the changing dynamics at the club and his desire to remain competitive elsewhere.
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Why Vancouver? Muller explains his MLS move
Speaking in his August newsletter, Muller said the offer from Vancouver “just worked.” He praised the club’s ambition and clear vision, specifically highlighting talks with managing director Axel Schuster and coach Jesper Sorensen.
At the time of his signing, the Whitecaps were second in the Western Conference, another factor that appealed to the World Cup winner.
A Barcelona reunion that never happened
Muller shared his admiration for Barcelona, a team he often excelled against. In 10 appearances against the Spanish giants, he scored eight goals and delivered two assists—his best record against any non-German club. Despite his success against them, he said he could have seen himself joining had Flick been in charge and the project been the right fit.
Memories with Flick: From treble winners to national struggles
Muller and Hansi Flick shared a successful spell at Bayern, highlighted by a stunning treble in Flick’s first season. Their synergy helped Bayern dominate both domestically and in Europe. However, their reunion with the German national team wasn’t as fruitful, as Flick struggled and posted a modest 48% win rate before moving on.
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Muller hits the ground running in Canada
Since joining the Whitecaps, Muller has quickly made his mark. He helped Vancouver clinch the Canadian Championship, scoring and assisting in the final. With eight goals in eight games, he’s averaging a goal contribution every 68 minutes, proof that his class remains undiminished despite his age.
A milestone-packed start to life in MLS
Muller’s North American chapter has already brought more than just team success. He netted his 300th career goal and surpassed Toni Kroos to become the most decorated German footballer in history, now with 35 titles. It’s been a dream start in Canada for one of Germany’s greatest ever players.
Will Muller return to Bayern in a new role?
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge recently suggested that Bayern fans hope to see former players take on leadership roles within the club. Muller responded with humour, saying “the path has already been mapped out,” though he remains undecided. While he knows his strengths, he's unsure whether coaching or becoming a football executive suits him.
Focused on Vancouver for now, future plans uncertain
Despite speculation about his post-playing career, Muller remains focused on his current stint. He’s under contract with the Whitecaps until the end of 2025, with an option to extend for another year as a Designated Player. As for what comes next? Muller isn’t rushing to decide, preferring to live in the moment.
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