Windhoek: Bayern Munich veteran Thomas Muller is nearing a transition to Major League Soccer (MLS) with an anticipated signing with the Vancouver Whitecaps.
According to Namibia Press Agency, only minor details remain before the 35-year-old signs a two-year contract with the Vancouver Whitecaps as a free agent on August 1. The 131-time capped German international is expected to further boost the MLS' profile alongside Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, who plays for Inter Miami. Reports indicate that Muller's debut for the Whitecaps could take place on August 9 against the San Jose Earthquakes.
The Bavarian forward recently expressed a desire to gain international experience to round out a decorated career that includes two UEFA Champions League titles, 13 Bundesliga championships, and six German Cup trophies. Muller has referred to the MLS as an intriguing competition, especially with the upcoming 2026 World Cup set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
German ties to the Canadian west coast club may have influenced his decision. Canadian international full-back Alphonso Davies joined Bayern from Vancouver in 2018, while Whitecaps managing director Alexander Schuster previously worked for German sides Mainz 05 and Schalke 04. In 2022, Nick Salihamidzic, son of former Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic, played for Vancouver.
"I am looking forward to playing in the MLS and meeting figureheads such as Messi," said Muller, who leaves Bayern after contributing 250 goals and 276 assists in 756 competitive appearances. He follows in the footsteps of fellow Bayern and German greats Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller, Lothar Matthaeus, and Bastian Schweinsteiger, who all played in the MLS after their European careers.
The Whitecaps have won the Canadian Championship four times, including three in the past three years. Muller acknowledged the challenge of adapting to new surroundings, stating, "When you leave a club like Bayern, you meet different circumstances." He added that he still feels "the desire for football burning in my chest."
Turning 36 in September, Muller saw his wish for a one-year contract extension turned down by Bayern as his playing time declined in recent seasons, during which he primarily served as a substitute and mentor for younger players.