by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Thomas Muller is making no secret of the value his 13th Bundesliga title holds.
When Bayern Munich visits RB Leipzig on Saturday, one point will be enough to secure the club's 34th league title. For Muller, the 35-year-old who will depart the only club he has ever played for at the end of the season, this title is particularly significant.
"A national title is of fundamental satisfaction, more than the UEFA Champions League or the Cup," he declared.
After playing 925 games for Bayern, including 743 in the first team, and earning 131 caps for Germany, Muller expressed his gratitude: "I feel thankful and full of joy."
Though his playing days are drawing to a close, Muller admitted he may face challenging times ahead. "When I feel a bit lost on Saturdays without a game, and I have to get a ticket to be around in the arena," he said, reflecting on life after football.
But for now, Muller remains in top form, focusing on the remaining Bundesliga games and the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
"We will get the things done," he promised Bayern's supporters.
"It might be hard to replace that feeling of competition and pressure I have lived with for the past years, but for now, it's full speed and desire," he added.
The striker has seemingly come to terms with his departure. Although he had hoped for another year with Bayern, the club refused to offer him an additional season. The announcement of his departure sparked unrest among fans, but Muller is now looking ahead. "We, as a team, are back to harmony. It hasn't always been like that this season, but now we feel it," he said following exits from the German Cup and the Champions League.
Bayern has granted Muller a farewell game at the Allianz Arena, and he has agreed to be around for the Club World Cup, scheduled from June 14 to July 13. A significant international title, particularly in the newly formed competition, is something Muller relishes.
"I am sure not all is going to collapse over me, and as it seems, I am not too emotional yet," he said.
Muller acknowledged that tears may come later. "At present, I feel in a tunnel and a competitive mood," he noted.
For now, though, Muller is focused on adding more titles to his collection and enjoying every minute. "Every time I get substituted or when I can score like against Inter, it feels overwhelming," he said. ■
