On August 6th, the MLS Vancouver Whitecaps officially announced that Bayern Munich veteran Thomas Müller has signed on a free transfer and will wear the number 13 jersey.
The Vancouver Whitecaps official announcement stated:
Vancouver Whitecaps Football Club announced on Wednesday the signing of German attacking midfielder Thomas Müller, one of football's most decorated and legendary players of all time. The Bayern Munich star will sign through the remainder of the 2025 season, with a designated player option for 2026. Müller will occupy an international player roster spot vacated by a season-ending injury. He will officially join the team's roster once he obtains international transfer authorization, visa, and work permit.
The Vancouver Whitecaps acquired the preferred discovery rights for Müller from FC Cincinnati in exchange for a $200,000 general allocation in 2025, a $100,000 general allocation in 2026, and a conditional $100,000 general allocation in 2026.
Vancouver Whitecaps CEO and Sporting Director Axel Schuster said: "Thomas is a world-class player and a top-tier spatial master, renowned for his exceptional chance creation, unparalleled spatial awareness, and tireless off-the-ball movement. He possesses not only an impressive championship record and exceptional football intelligence, but also a relentless work ethic that will elevate the entire team. Thomas is a natural leader whose passion for the game is contagious. This is a significant acquisition for our club and ownership, and a transformative moment for our club and city. We are proud to welcome Thomas to Vancouver."
The Vancouver Whitecaps are coming off a record-breaking season, finishing first in the MLS Western Conference in points per game. Müller is scheduled to arrive in Vancouver next Wednesday, with his media appearance and first training session scheduled for Thursday.
"I'm looking forward to going to Vancouver and helping this team win titles," Müller said. "I've heard great things about this city, but most importantly, I'm here to win. I've had great conversations with Axel Schuster and Jesper Sorensen, and now I can't wait to play in front of the fans and see them cheering us on as we head towards the playoffs."
Müller enjoyed a brilliant 17-year career at Bayern Munich before joining the Vancouver Whitecaps. With Bayern, he became one of the most successful players in European football history. The attacking star made 756 appearances, scoring 250 goals and providing 238 assists, helping the team win a record 33 titles, including 13 Bundesliga titles, eight German Super Cups, six German Cups, two UEFA Champions Leagues, two UEFA Super Cups, and two FIFA Club World Cups.
Internationally, Müller has made 131 appearances for Germany, scoring 45 goals and providing 41 assists, playing a key role in Germany's 2014 World Cup victory. He also won the Golden Boot and Best Young Player awards at the 2010 World Cup, and the Silver Boot and Silver Ball at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.