After 25 trophy-laden years at Bayern Munich, German forward Thomas Muller is headed across the Atlantic to begin an exciting new chapter with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Vancouver Whitecaps.
Vancouver officially announced Muller’s signing on Wednesday, confirming a deal through the end of the 2025 MLS season with an option for 2026. His base salary for the first season? A reported $685,000, though that figure is expected to soar soon.
Interestingly, Muller’s first-year wages will fall under the MLS Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) mechanism. This structure allows teams to bend the rules of the league’s salary cap (currently $5.9 million) by allocating up to $2.9 million for special signings.
So, while his salary might look modest for now, the club has big plans.
The Designated Player Bump Awaits
Here’s where things get even more intriguing. From 2026, Thomas Muller is expected to switch to a Designated Player (DP) contract, the same rule that allows clubs to splash out far beyond the salary cap.
Just for perspective, Lionel Messi earns over $16 million per year through a DP slot. At present, Vancouver’s three DP slots are occupied, but insiders suggest one will open up next year, paving the way for Muller to earn a significant raise, potentially 10 times his initial salary.
“I’m Coming to Win”
Despite his star power, Thomas Muller remains as grounded as ever.
“I’m looking forward to coming to Vancouver to help this team win a championship,” he said in a statement. “I’ve heard great things about the city, but first and foremost, I’m coming to win.”
He added that conversations with Vancouver’s sporting director Axel Schuster and head coach Jesper Sorensen made his decision easier. Now, Muller is itching to get started and play in front of the home fans at BC Place.
Currently sitting second in the Western Conference, just a point behind leaders San Diego with a game in hand, Vancouver are well-positioned for a title run.
Why This Move Makes Sense?
At Bayern last season, the 35-year-old found himself playing a limited role, mostly as a substitute. Still, he managed 49 appearances in all competitions, netting eight goals. But at this stage in his career, Muller wanted more than cameos.
“He not only brings a winning pedigree and exceptional football intelligence, but also a tireless work ethic that will elevate the entire team,” said Schuster. “This is a statement signing, a transformative moment for our club and our city.”
Muller’s glittering career includes 33 major trophies, 250 goals and 276 assists in 756 appearances for Bayern. That haul includes 13 Bundesliga titles, two Champions League wins and a World Cup with Germany.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
