Premier League return? Robben leaving options open after confirming Bayern exit

Veteran winger Arjen Robben is keeping his options open following his decision to leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after being linked with a sensational return to the Premier League.

The 34-year-old has enjoyed a glittering career, which included spells at Chelsea and Real Madrid, before joining Bayern almost a decade ago. 

The Dutchman's contract runs out at the end of this season and he will be able to move to the club of his choice on a free transfer, should he choose not to hang up his boots for good after confirming he will leave the Allianz Arena .

“[My future's] still open, anything could still happen. Now was the right time to announce my departure," Robben told Bayern Munich's official website . 

"For the fans and the club, everything is clear and everyone knows it’s over at the end of the season.

"I have time to think about my future and what the next step will be. It’s possible that I’ll retire. It could also be good to continue if something interesting comes up."

However, the prospect of Robben retiring seems unlikely given his recent form, having scored two wonderful goals in his side's recent Champions League tie against Benfica.

“I’m thankful that at 34 I can still perform at this level as a winger," he added. "That’s something special and it makes me happy. It would be different if someone said it wasn't going well any-more and I had to stop. I think it’s better this way. It’s good.

“It’s a bit strange. We’re already talking about saying goodbye but the team has plenty of ambition and I do as well. It makes me happy to see that I can still deliver a top performance in a big European game against Benfica - and may that continue.

"I hope to play an important role right to the end to help the team. My goal is to leave with at least one trophy in the summer.”

Robben was also wanted by Manchester United in 2004 when he joined Chelsea, and his availability on a free transfer is likely to appeal to other Premier League clubs.

He has also been linked with a move to Major League Soccer side the Philadelphia Union.