It’s safe to suggest that the current Major League Soccer transfer window has been quite sensational.
Inter Miami have bolstered their ranks with another celebrated World Cup victor, Rodrigo de Paul, and LAFC have secured Son Heung-min’s signature for a sum that breaks MLS transfer records.
Additionally, Vancouver Whitecaps have obtained the services of Thomas Muller, a player who has achieved considerable success in German football history.
When will Thomas Muller participate in his inaugural Vancouver Whitecaps match?
Muller entered Bayern Munich’s youth system in 2000, progressing through the various levels before establishing himself as a vital component of the senior squad. He accumulated a record-breaking 13 Bundesliga titles, secured six DFB-Pokals, triumphed in eight DFL-Supercups, achieved two Champions League victories, claimed two UEFA Super Cups, and earned two FIFA Club World Cups. Additionally, he played a role in Germany’s triumph at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Having amassed 250 goals and 231 assists across 756 appearances, Muller holds the distinction of being Bayern’s all-time appearance leader. He also stands as the sole player, alongside Marco Reus and Andreas Moller, to attain 100 goals and 100 assists in the Bundesliga.
About a year following Muller’s declaration of his retirement from international duty, during which he represented Germany in 131 matches and scored 45 goals, Bayern revealed their decision not to extend his contract. Speculation arose that Muller, who will reach the age of 36 in the upcoming month, might choose to conclude his playing career and retire as a player exclusively associated with one club.
However, he opted to prolong his time on the field by joining Vancouver Whitecaps without any transfer fee involved. He committed to a contract that spans the remainder of the 2025 season, which includes a Designated Player option for the year 2026.
“I am excited about the prospect of playing in Vancouver and contributing to the team’s pursuit of a championship,” Muller stated during his introductory press conference on Wednesday.
“I have received positive feedback regarding the city, but my primary objective is to secure victories. I have engaged in productive discussions with Axel Schuster and Jesper Sørensen, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to perform in front of our supporters and witness the enthusiastic attendance of fans at BC Place as we progress toward the playoffs.”
Vancouver is scheduled to travel to California on Saturday to compete against San Jose Earthquakes, marking their first game in a span of 14 days. Following this, they will face Canadian Premier League team Forge FC in the initial leg of the Canadian Championship semifinals on Wednesday.
Their return to home action is set for four days later, where they will play against Houston Dynamo. It is generally anticipated that Muller will make his debut for Vancouver in this match. Houston currently holds the 11th position in the Western Conference, trailing the playoff positions by three points, while Vancouver is in second place, just one point behind the conference leaders, San Diego FC.
