Bayern Munich and Germany legend ready to 'open new chapter' after contract terminated a year early by Austrian club

Former Bayern Munich and Germany centre-back Boateng and Austrian first division club LASK have mutually agreed to terminate his contract early, the club announced on Tuesday. The 2014 World Cup winner signed a two-year contract last summer as a free agent. 

After leaving Bayern in the summer of 2021, the defender was without a club for several months before signing for French outfit Lyon on a two-year deal. Then, he spent six months at Salernitana in Italy, before moving to LASK in 2024. He spent most of his time there injured and made 14 appearances. In March, a five-year legal case against him was dropped. Boateng was not charged with assault, coercion or defamation on the basis of the principle of "in dubio pro reo" (when in doubt, for the defendant).

"Jerome has always behaved professionally throughout his time at LASK and has done everything he can to help the team with his experience. He has played an important role, especially for our young players, by providing them with excellent support and encouragement," said sporting director Dino Buric. 

The 36-year-old defender added: "I would like to thank LASK for their trust and the time we spent together here in Linz. It was an enriching experience to work in a new environment once again. Now the time is right for me to open a new chapter. I will announce soon what new challenges – both sporting and personal – await me in the future."

Boateng is set to turn 37 in September, and it remains to be seen where the veteran defender ends up as he promises an announcement in the near future.