Bayern Munich icon Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has backed Thomas Muller's MLS move, suggesting it's the perfect preparation for a future leadership role at the German club. The board member believes Muller "did the right thing" by signing for Vancouver Whitecaps in the summer and hinted that the door is open for the 36-year-old to return to Munich in an off-field capacity.

Will Muller join the Bayern board after he retires?

Bayern legend Rummenigge and former CEO has endorsed Muller's move to the Vancouver Whitecaps, suggesting the experience could prepare the veteran forward for a future leadership role back at the Bundesliga club. In an interview with , the supervisory board member stated that Muller "did the right thing" by moving to MLS.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMuller's bright start in North America

Muller, 36, left Bayern on a free transfer in August 2025 after the club did not offer him a new contract, ending a legendary spell that included 756 first-team appearances. He has made an immediate impact in North America, scoring four goals and providing one assist in his first three MLS matches for Vancouver, contributing to a total of six goals in eight appearances across all competitions for his new club.

'Broadening his horizons' – What Rummenigge said

Rummenigge believes the move will be beneficial for Muller's post-playing career prospects. 

"He's gaining new experiences in North America, broadening his horizons, perfecting another language, and getting to know a new culture," Rummenigge said. "He could prepare himself there to some extent for a possible job afterward."

The former CEO also noted the club's tradition of bringing back former stars, stating: "It is the wish of the fans and the club that former players take on a leadership role at Bayern Munich." 

However, he issued a note of caution, adding: "He has played football at the highest level, which would undoubtedly help him. And he knows the club very well. But it is also clear: a board or managerial position is a completely different job than the one on the pitch."

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The bigger picture at Bayern

Rummenigge also commented on the current leadership dynamic at Bayern, staunchly defending honorary president Uli Hoeness amid recent public criticism of sporting director Max Eberl. Dismissing the dispute as "no big deal," Rummenigge insisted. "FC Bayern doesn't need less Uli Hoeness, it needs more Uli Hoeness." 

He described heated disagreements as "cleansing storms" and part of the club's "Bavarian culture of debate."