Thomas Muller is reportedly frustrated at Bayern Munich and could look for a transfer if he continues to get limited gametime.
Bayern Munich have endured a steady start to the season. The Bundesliga champions have dropped points thrice in the league, but the performances have been fairly consistent. The win over Tottenham Hotspurs in the Champions League further showed that Bayern is now a more settled side under Niko Kovac.
The Croatian manager was under immense scrutiny throughout his debut season. His future at the club remained in doubt until he sealed the domestic double in May. This season Kovac looks calmer, and he is settled on his strongest starting lineup, which helps in building chemistry in the team.
However, a consistent starting eleven is bound to upset some of the players in the squad. Thomas Muller is one of the few players at the club that have struggled to get regular playing time this season. Philippe Coutinho has displaced Muller in the starting eleven by impressing in all the past five games across all competitions.
According to Bild (via Bulinews), Muller is frustrated with his current situation at Bayern. This report also insists that Muller may consider leaving the club if he fails to get regular playing time. The German forward has managed to play only 294 minutes of football this season. (stats via Whoscored)
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Muller changed the game for Die Roten when he came on in the second half against Hoffenheim. Bayern went out to win the game, but Muller caused havoc in the final third and delivered a delicious cross for the first goal. The German forward can still play a vital part for Bayern, but starting regularly might be a thing of the past.
Bayern may sign Coutinho from Barcelona permanently or make a move for Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Kai Havertz next summer. Any of these two players will take up Mulle’s position in the starting lineup. If Muller wants to stay at Bayern for a few more years, then he will have to become a squad player.
The Bavarians made some tough decisions last summer as numerous senior players were allowed to leave the club. Arjen Robben, Rafinha, and Franck Ribery were released while Mats Hummels completed transfer back to Borussia Dortmund. The German club also didn’t exercise the option to sign James Rodriguez permanently from Real Madrid.
Die Roten may have to make similar decisions next summer. The club may address the future of Muller in 2020 as his current deal is set to expire in 2021. Muller will go down as one of the greatest players to play for Bayern. However, it will not be a huge surprise if he decides to move on next summer to get regular gametime.