Thomas Müller was officially introduced at the Vancouver Whitecaps on Thursday. In his usual humorous manner, the Bayern legend faced the press and spoke about his first impressions of Canada and how he plans to settle in.
Thomas Müller knows how to handle the media like no other. He demonstrated this once again in impressive fashion on Thursday during his presentation in Vancouver. Whether speaking English or German, the FC Bayern legend won everyone over with his charming and humorous manner. “First of all, I’m obviously delighted to be here and want to get out on the pitch as soon as possible,” said the Whitecaps’ new number 13. “The city is nice, yes, I know that. And I’ve heard that it’s perhaps the best city in the world. But at the end of the day, I’m here to play soccer.”
The attacking player has done his homework and is now looking forward to finally getting started. “I’ve been in touch with some of my teammates and watched the cup semi-final yesterday,” said Müller, who assured everyone: “I’m fully committed. I’m very happy to be joining the team at the most interesting stage of the season. Jesper and the team have done a great job. I hope I can settle in very quickly.”
After 25 of 34 games, Vancouver is second in the MLS table and well on course for the playoffs. In the Canadian Championship, they recently drew 2-2 in the first leg of the semi-final against Forge FC. Müller is therefore entering the decisive phase of the season and is fully prepared for his new adventure. “I’m fine, I’m not too prone to jet lag. I’m fit,” said the 503-time Bundesliga player (150 goals), who will start training soon.
“Müller mania” at the airport
It was clear that there would be huge hype surrounding him. Müller knew what to expect – and was greeted with frenetic celebrations upon his arrival at the airport, sparking a veritable “Müller mania.” “The welcome was really wonderful,” said Müller happily. “When a big name arrives, it’s completely normal for everyone to be a little excited. We want to embrace this hype. I’ve felt very welcome so far.”
After taking his first steps in soccer in his hometown of Pähl, Müller joined FC Bayern in 2000 and has played for no other club since. Müller became a legend in Munich, winning numerous titles, including 13 league championships, six DFB Cups, and two Champions League titles. Now he is moving to a new team in a different country. He has never spent much time abroad before, let alone away from a World Cup or European Championship.
“I’ve always found my niche”
The 35-year-old has never been to Canada before. He is not particularly worried about settling in. “Well, first of all, I’m already grown up,” said Müller with a laugh, adding: “I’ll be fine. I know how to get by in life. I even know how to vacuum and clean an apartment, so anything is possible. But at the end of the day, I know that the important things in my daily routine always take place at the training ground or on the pitch.”
The new MLS star is also not worried about any problems he might encounter in his new league. “I’ve always managed to adapt well to my surroundings throughout my career. My teammates have changed, the style of soccer has changed. I’ve always found my niche and been important to the team,” Müller explains. “That’s why I’m not worried at all about being able to adapt, no matter what the league demands.”