Football icon Thomas Müller has humorously dismissed any possibility of returning to the German national team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
During a media event, Müller was directly asked about the likelihood of a comeback to the DFB team. His answer was an unequivocal «zero.» He then added with a touch of his characteristic wit: «If he [national coach Julian Nagelsmann] calls me, then he’s got a screw loose. Then he really has a problem. He can’t possibly call me. How many would have to be out? Like 15 offensive players?»
Müller concluded his illustrious international career following Germany’s quarter-final exit at the 2024 European Championship. His impressive national team record includes 131 appearances – placing him third among Germany’s all-time most capped players – alongside 45 goals and 41 assists. His career highlight remains winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
At club level, Müller spent 25 years (2000-2025) with FC Bayern Munich before his contract was not renewed last summer, leading to his move to the Vancouver Whitecaps in MLS. In his inaugural season there, he narrowly missed out on a league title.
Thomas Müller on a Return to FC Bayern: «If the door is ajar…»
While an international comeback is clearly not on Müller’s agenda, a future return to FC Bayern in a functional or management role appears to be a possibility.
When questioned about such a prospect, he stated: «I’m someone who doesn’t rule anything out. I just let things come to me. If a door was even slightly ajar in my life and I wanted to go through it, I’ve always managed to do so. If I want it and have the skills to push a door open, it doesn’t have to be wide open, and I might still fit through.»
Müller will serve as a pundit for Magenta TV at the 2026 World Cup, joining Jürgen Klopp and Mats Hummels. The German national team is scheduled to compete against Curacao, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast in the group stage of the tournament.