'It just worked' - Thomas Muller explains why he chose Vancouver Whitecaps transfer and sees benefit to joining in middle of MLS season

Bayern legend Muller has officially joined Major League Soccer side Vancouver Whitecaps, bringing down the curtain on his legendary 25-year spell at the German champions. The 35-year-old forward has signed a short-term deal that will see him join immediately, with the option to become a Designated Player from the 2026 season. Muller is expected to make his debut on August 17 against Houston Dynamo, pending match fitness and final paperwork.

The Whitecaps, currently battling for a playoff spot in the Western Conference, have made it clear they’re aiming higher, and Muller’s arrival is a signal of serious intent.

Muller shed light on the motivation behind his decision to join the Canadian club, making it clear in his monthly newsletter that the move was carefully thought out. 

He wrote: "What I particularly like is that since the season is already entering its final phase, I'm getting straight to the point. My first minutes of play will probably be on August 17 against Houston Dynamo. The overall package just worked. From a sporting perspective, we/they are in contention for the title and are currently in second place in the Western Conference. The discussions with managing director Axel Schuster and coach Jesper Sorensen were really good from the start, I noticed they know where they want to go. Clear words, as you know, I've always liked that. 

The 2014 World Cup winner also threw light on being present at the turf with old team-mates until recently: "To be honest, this doesn't feel as strange as you might think. I've known about my situation since March and have had time to adjust. I'm now happy that my next stop has been decided and I can continue doing what I love: playing football. In the last few days, I've met my old team-mates and shared some wonderful moments. It was relaxed, with no feeling of farewell or anything like that." 

Muller’s move to Canada marks one of the most high-profile European arrivals in MLS history. While many stars choose larger US-based franchises, Muller’s decision reflects both personal and sporting factors, from club vision to lifestyle. Besides, the weather in Canada is also quite suitable for the Bavarian. It’s a major coup for the Whitecaps and a signal that the MLS continues to evolve as a genuine destination for world-class talent who still want to compete at a high level.

Muller is set to link up with his new teammates immediately and is expected to feature against Houston Dynamo later this month. With Vancouver firmly in the playoff mix, he could have a decisive impact on their title push. The club also has the option to register him as a Designated Player in 2026, a move that would further elevate his role as the face of their project both on and off the pitch.