Thomas Müller and FC Bayern—for many years, this connection was virtually inseparable. In 2015, however, their shared history nearly took a surprising turn. Manchester United was desperate to sign the then-world champion and was willing to pay more than 100 million euros.
On the podcast *The Late Run*, Müller has now spoken in detail once again about the potential move to England. The former Bayern star apparently wasn’t entirely opposed to a transfer at the time.
Louis van Gaal played a decisive role. The Dutchman was coaching Manchester United at the time and knew Müller very well from his days at FC Bayern. It was under van Gaal that the attacking player had once made his breakthrough in Munich.
Müller considered a move to United
“I definitely had the idea back then of maybe making a move, because my first coach, Louis van Gaal, was at United. But at the same time, I was also glad that Bayern said no,” Müller revealed.
Manchester United reportedly made an offer of more than 100 million euros. For Bayern, however, a sale was out of the question. Looking back, Müller saw this stance by the Munich club as a tremendous sign of appreciation.
“It was a great honor for me that they turned down an offer of over 100 million and said, ‘Okay, you’re our guy.’”
Nevertheless, Müller seriously considered the competitive challenge of the Premier League. “It always depends on how you feel at your club. In my situation, I felt comfortable at Bayern, but the offer was very good. At the same time, I saw the chance to work with my mentor again. I was in my mid-20s and felt that maybe I was ready for the Premier League.”
Müller was 25 years old at the time, a World Cup champion, and had long been one of FC Bayern’s most important players. Still, there were phases in his career when he questioned his own development.
“When you’re 20 and still have to earn your spot, you’re not entirely sure of yourself yet. Even my first season was impressive, but you still ask yourself: Can I do it again? Am I really that good?”
“At Bayern, you really have everything”
In 2015, the situation looked different. Müller felt ready for a new challenge. “There are always doubts. At that moment back then, I felt ready. But at the same time, I was also happy that Bayern simply said no.”
From his perspective, there were plenty of reasons to stay in Munich anyway. “Because when you’re at FC Bayern, you really have it all. You face tough competition, compete for the Champions League every year, live in a great city, and are number one in Germany. As a German national team player, you’re always in the spotlight there.”
It was precisely this special role at the German record champions that Müller valued. “I’ve always enjoyed being in the spotlight, feeling that pressure, and taking on a little more responsibility for the fans than others.”
That finally put an end to any possibility of a move to Manchester United. Just a few months later, Müller sent a clear signal about his future with the record champions: In December 2015, he extended his contract with FC Bayern through 2021.