Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeness has criticised Thomas Müller’s behaviour towards the end of his time at the club, suggesting the forward spent more time talking than playing. The comments came in an interview with DAZN ahead of Bayern’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain.
Hoeness, 74, stated that Müller became primarily a spokesperson in his later years at Bayern, but acknowledged the player’s skill in maintaining a positive public image even when not a regular starter. He did not elaborate on specific incidents, but implied Müller’s focus shifted away from on-field performance. Müller left Bayern in August 2023, joining Major League Soccer side Vancouver Whitecaps on a free transfer.
The veteran forward had enjoyed a hugely successful career with Bayern, scoring 250 goals and providing 276 assists in 756 appearances. He won eleven Bundesliga titles, six DFB-Pokals, and the Champions League in 2013. His departure marked the end of an era for the Bavarian club, with Müller being a symbol of Bayern’s success for over a decade.
Hoeness used Müller as a contrasting example to Michael Olise, the French international currently attracting attention from several European clubs. He praised Olise’s introverted nature and dedication to his craft, noting the player’s reluctance to engage extensively on social media. This contrasted sharply with Hoeness’s perception of Müller’s increased focus on public relations. Olise currently plays for Crystal Palace in the Premier League and has been linked with a move to Bayern in the past.
The comments offer a rare insight into the internal dynamics at Bayern during Müller’s final seasons. While acknowledging Müller’s contributions, Hoeness’s critique suggests a perceived disconnect between the player’s public persona and his on-field impact. This could influence how Bayern approaches player management and public relations in the future.
