Bayern Munich: Thomas Muller not considering international retirement
The World Cup 2022 was a difficult tournament for Bayern Munich’s German contingent. Germany lost to Japan in the first group game, eventually eliminating them from the group stage. Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller endured a disappointing World Cup 2022 on an individual and collective level with Germany.
Muller failed to score/assist in the three group games for Germany. His performances were disappointing for the second tournament in a row since he also endured a difficult World Cup campaign in Russia four years ago.
The 33-year-old versatile forward came into World Cup 2022 after recovering from a frustrating injury. He didn’t feature for Bayern in most games during October. The lack of match rhythm probably affected his performances for Germany in Qatar.
Muller was possibly playing in his last World Cup with Germany. The experienced forward hinted towards retirement from the international after Germany was eliminated in the group stage. After a few weeks of reflection, Thomas Muller changed his mind about retiring from the German national team. While talking to the media in Doha on Monday, Muller confirmed his desire to keep playing for Germany.
"“I was emotional after the game, it was a sad moment. I thought about it and exchanged ideas with Hansi Flick. As long as I’m a professional footballer, I’ll always be available for the national team.”"
The German forward will be in contention to play for the national team during Euro 2024. Since Germany is hosting the tournament, Muller’s farewell with the national team can be memorable if he helps the team to win the trophy.
It is highly unlikely that Thomas Muller will play in the next World Cup since he will be 37 by 2026. Germany will most likely move forward and rely on younger players instead of calling up Muller. Euro 2024 is a very realistic target for Muller as long as he gets back to his best for Germany. Hansi Flick considered Muller a key part of the team when he was in Munich, so it will not be surprising to see him rely on the veteran forward during Euro 2024.
Muller has endured a drop in his performances for Bayern this season. He will be hoping to bounce back strongly in Ruckrunde and help the team win trophies. A good run of form in the next few weeks will make sure that Muller is called up by Flick for Germany’s friendly games in March.
Next. How can Blind strengthen Bayern?. dark
Want your voice heard? Join the Bayern Strikes team!
The 33-year-old forward is currently training with the first team in Doha. Muller will be looking to get minutes under the belt when Bayern host RB Salzburg in a friendly on Friday. The record Bundesliga champions will resume the Bundesliga campaign against RB Leipzig on January 20.