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Tim Howard Stands by 'Aging' Thomas Muller After Bayern Munich Exit

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Binoy | Last updated Sep 10, 2025 2:51 PM ET

After more than a decade of trophies, records, and unforgettable moments with Bayern Munich, Thomas Muller has finally closed that chapter of his career. Instead of hanging up his boots, though, the German legend made a surprising switch across the Atlantic to join the Vancouver Whitecaps.

The move caught plenty of fans and pundits off guard—some celebrating the fresh challenge, others questioning whether at 35 he still has enough left in the tank to make a difference. But while doubts have circled, Muller has found support from an unlikely voice: former USMNT captain and Premier League veteran Tim Howard, who insists age shouldn’t overshadow what Muller still brings to the pitch. For Howard, Muller’s experience and footballing brain are exactly what Vancouver needs, even if the forward’s peak years are behind him.

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While speaking about Muller’s move to Vancouver, Howard said, “The Thomas Muller thing is interesting because he's weird - and I don't mean that in a bad way - like the guy loves to speak, he loves the compete. Like no matter whether he was aging with the national team, or with Bayern Munich, he desperately wants to be on the field and desperately wants to score and he's got this like, real infectious attitude and I think it's great... he's going into a team that's playing really, really well. So actually you don't have the carry a team, don't have to lead - the team's already going well. This is like a nice cherry on top. "

A Closer Look at Muller’s Move to Vancouver

The Vancouver Whitecaps pulled off one of the biggest signings in Major League Soccer history when they secured the services of Thomas Müller. The Bayern Munich legend and 2014 World Cup winner officially joined the Canadian club at 35, leaving behind nearly two decades in Germany to take on a new challenge in North America.

Müller had long hinted at wanting to end his career abroad, and while clubs like LAFC made a late push, Vancouver ultimately won the race for his signature. For the Whitecaps, it wasn’t just about adding a player it was about making a statement. Müller brought with him an incredible resume: more than 700 games for Bayern, 12 Bundesliga titles, two Champions League trophies, and that famous World Cup triumph.

Even if his prime years were behind him, his football IQ, leadership, and experience gave Vancouver a boost that elevated them from contenders to serious title threats.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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