German international Thomas Mueller has confirmed he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after the club declined to offer him a new contract, marking the end of a remarkable 25-year journey with the Bundesliga giants.
The 35-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, shared the news on social media, expressing disappointment with the club’s decision.
“The decision was made by the club and not what I would have wished,” Mueller wrote.
He also voiced frustration over how the contract situation had been handled publicly in recent months, but acknowledged the appreciation shown by Bayern.
“I didn’t like how things played out back and forth in public. But I felt the appreciation from everyone involved after my long time with Bayern,” he added.
“The special connection to the club and our fantastic fans will always remain.”
A Bayern legend bows out
Mueller, who joined Bayern’s youth academy at the age of 10, has spent his entire career with the club, amassing a record 743 appearances—more than any other player in Bayern history.
Over his storied career, he has scored 247 goals and provided 273 assists, helping Bayern win 12 Bundesliga titles, two UEFA Champions League crowns, and multiple domestic trophies.
Despite a reduced role in recent seasons, Mueller remains a club icon and has played an instrumental part in Bayern’s domestic and European dominance over the past decade.
Final push for glory
Mueller said his current focus is helping Bayern win the Bundesliga title and reach the Champions League final, which will be held at their home ground, the Allianz Arena.
Later on Saturday, Bayern confirmed Mueller will receive a testimonial match in recognition of his legendary status, and will also be part of the squad for the Club World Cup in July.
“Thomas Mueller had the definition of a Bavarian fairytale career,” said Bayern president Herbert Hainer.
Born in Weilheim, just outside Munich, Mueller made his senior debut in 2008 under then-coach Jürgen Klinsmann, in a match against a Hamburg side featuring current Bayern boss Vincent Kompany.
Future plans still unclear
Mueller did not reveal his next destination, though reports in German media suggest a possible move to the MLS in the United States, where several European stars have extended their careers.
As he prepares to bid farewell to his boyhood club, Mueller’s legacy as one of Bayern Munich’s most iconic and loyal figures is firmly cemented.