Former Bayern Munich manager gives Thomas Müller his due

Few coaches had the privilege of coaching Thomas Müller in two different roles but Julian Nagelsmann was one of them. He managed Bayern Munich and eventually learned to rely on Müller when things got tough. He did the same for Germany in EURO 2024 as the team succumbed to Spain and Müller’s assists almost set up the winning goal but neither Niclas Füllkrug nor Kai Havertz were able to convert their chances. this is what Nagelsmann had to say:

“I’m grateful that I was able to accompany Thomas for part of his career, with the national team and at FC Bayern. It was a pleasure to work with him,” said Nagelsmann. “Thomas is a passionate professional who is just as passionate about football now as he was on the first day. He has enriched our European Championship team not only with his sporting qualities, but also as a leader, a role model, and a figure to identify with.”

“Thomas is as a very intelligent player – football-wise, emotionally and fundamentally. As much as I regret that he will no longer be with us, I have big hope that Thomas will continue to shape German football in the future – as a player for FC Bayern and in other roles in the future. We will miss him very much in the national team.”

Nagelsmann’s kind words reflect what many supporters are perhaps feeling. Those shoes will be big to fill. Müller leaves behind a gap in leadership but also, a gap in the hearts of a public who always loved him regardless of what the international media thought of him.