In Munich, Bayern Munich fans showed their admiration for Thomas Müller during what was his last home appearance for the club, both before, during, and after the match on Saturday. The occasion was marked with a blend of celebration and nostalgia for Müller’s remarkable career.
“We all anticipated this moment would arrive. I was aware of it as well,” Müller expressed his emotions to the Bayern supporters following the club’s 2-0 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach. “I’m thrilled about it… we’ve brought this trophy back to Munich!” The victory secured Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga championship, and although they clinched the title last weekend, the trophy presentation occurred after Saturday’s game, turning the spotlight on Müller, celebrating his 750th match for the Bavarian giants.
Supporters in the stands showcased their admiration with a grand display—a colossal red and white tifo featuring images of Müller in triumphant poses with various trophies along with a banner reading, “For 25 years everything for our colors!” This pre-game tribute was aimed at highlighting Müller’s longstanding dedication. Club officials also marked the occasion by presenting Müller, who is 35 years old, with a picture depicting him alongside all the trophies he has won with Bayern Munich over the years. “Let us play!” he jested as he carried the commemorative picture and a bouquet to the sideline.
Müller reached his 502nd Bundesliga cap, playing until the 84th minute before being substituted to a standing ovation from fans. As he left the pitch, he shared warm embraces with his teammates before blowing kisses and waving at the supportive crowd. In honor, the Bayern substitutes formed a guard of honor for his exit. Müller is set to depart from Bayern Munich at the season’s end, having secured a record 13 league titles among numerous other accolades with the club.
“I’ll miss it. I cherished being the contemporary gladiator,” Müller shared with fans, reflecting on his experiences. “But I’m not sorrowful. The future excites me, even if it’s only half as fulfilling as this.”
In April, Bayern Munich announced that Mueller’s tenure with the club would be concluding at the end of the season. While Müller was eager to extend his contract, albeit with limited playing time, the club’s management determined it was strategically wise to save on his significant wage costs rather than offer a new contract. Müller embarked on his journey with Bayern as a 10-year-old, having transitioned from TSV Pähl, a smaller Bavarian club located just southwest of Munich, in the summer of 2000.
He made his debut with Bayern under the guidance of Jürgen Klinsmann in 2008 with a breakthrough following the next season under Louis van Gaal. Throughout his career, he accumulated more appearances than any other player for Bayern Munich, contributing over 200 goals and assisting more than 200 further, underscoring his iconic status at the club.