Muller’s Strategic Move to MLS: A Pathway to Bayern Leadership

Herbert Hainer, President of Bayern Munich, has revealed a surprising dialogue with veteran forward Thomas Muller, in which he suggested that Muller consider a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) as a preparation for a potential leadership role at Bayern in the future. In an interview with Abendzeitung, Hainer disclosed, “After his departure was confirmed, Thomas Muller came to my office. I advised him in a personal conversation that if he later wanted a job in sports, he should move to MLS.”

This advice reflects a strategic foresight for Muller’s post-playing career, aimed at broadening his experience prior to a possible return to the Bavarian club. Hainer emphasized that a pathway back to Bayern in an operational capacity remains available for Muller. “He can work operationally for us. He can become a brand ambassador. He could even succeed me one day,” Hainer affirmed, underscoring the immense value the club places on its legendary player.

This sentiment resonates with previous remarks from supervisory board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who also endorsed Muller’s move to North America, expressing a desire for former players to assume leadership roles at Bayern.

Since joining the Vancouver Whitecaps on a free transfer in August 2025, Muller has sparked a “veritable Muller hype” within MLS. His exceptional form has quickly established him as a key player for the Canadian club. In just seven MLS appearances, he has scored seven goals and provided three assists, with an overall record of nine goals and four assists across all competitions.

Despite his success, Muller remains humble. In an interview with Bayerischer Rundfunk, he stated, “I didn’t come here to become Vancouver’s superstar. I feel a responsibility to give something back to the club. We want the stadium to be full and to draw attention to the sport in the city.” He humorously noted that he is adapting his communication skills to the new environment, adding, “Don’t worry, Radio Muller broadcasts here too.”

Muller’s immediate focus is on the MLS Conference semi-finals, where the Vancouver Whitecaps will face LAFC. Accustomed to European knockout formats, he admitted some unfamiliarity with the MLS structure, stating, “I thought playoffs were like basketball or ice hockey. If I could choose, I’d prefer a home and away game.” The first round of the MLS playoffs is contested as a best-of-three series before transitioning to single-elimination matches.

Muller’s contract with the Whitecaps runs until December 31, with an option for an additional year. He plans to return to Germany for a visit next month, maintaining close ties with his former club through a “golf chat group” with many ex-Bayern colleagues.

Hainer also expressed his admiration for Bayern’s current coach, Vincent Kompany, describing him as a “stroke of luck” for the club. Hainer noted that Kompany’s leadership style resonates well with both the hierarchy and the players, stating, “He’s someone who never puts himself in the spotlight, but rather the team. The players repay him for that.” Hainer believes that Kompany has the potential to usher in a new era of success at Bayern, especially given the club’s undefeated start this season, a stark contrast to recent managerial changes.

Hainer commented on the timing of Julian Nagelsmann’s potential return, suggesting it would have been “far too early” for the former coach, who is currently gaining valuable experience with the national team. “He will become a very good coach, I’m convinced of that. He’s gaining that experience now with the national team.”

For Bayern Munich, the immediate future involves maintaining their strong domestic and European campaign under Kompany. The club’s leadership, including Hainer, is actively laying the groundwork for Muller’s potential return in a non-playing capacity, signaling a clear intent to integrate club legends into their long-term structure.

Sitting atop both the Bundesliga and Champions League tables, Bayern aims to rebound from the recent 2-2 draw with Union Berlin by securing victory against Freiburg in their first match after the international break. Shortly thereafter, they will take on European contenders Arsenal in London.