2024-09-08 04:57:32
Thomas Müller still has one year left on his contract with FC Bayern. Then the 2014 world champion could end his career. But what happens after that?
For Rudi Völler, a future for Thomas Müller after his professional career would also be conceivable at the DFB. “I can very well imagine Thomas in a responsible role anywhere, whether at an association or in a club. He has the intellect and empathy to fulfil such a task,” the current sports director of the German Football Association told “Bild”.
Müller ended his career in the national team in mid-July. The 2014 world champion played 131 international matches and scored 45 goals. The attacking player, who turns 35 on September 13, has a contract with FC Bayern Munich that runs until the end of June 2025.
“I always try to convince ex-players to take on the job of sports director or coach,” said Völler. “But of course, these jobs require a lot of strength. That’s why it’s ultimately a very personal decision.” The 64-year-old himself will continue to hold the post at the DFB until mid-2026, during the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
When asked whether professionals should continue in an office immediately after their active career or take a break first, Völler said: “It always depends on the type. I understand if you want to take a break first. But sometimes you have to seize the opportunity, you don’t get requests all the time.”
He continued straight away. Völler ended his career in 1996, and the 1990 world champion then moved to the position of sporting director at Bayer Leverkusen. “I was able to look over Reiner Calmund’s shoulder in the first few years to learn. That’s how you grow into this role. Today the requirements are a little different. Management is spread across many people, which is right,” said Völler.