Müller showdown against Messi: How FC Bayern reacts | OneFootball

A familiar duel is being revisited, this time on a new continent. Thomas Müller is facing his biggest game since his MLS move, and FC Bayern have sent out a clear message.

The Vancouver Whitecaps secured the Western Conference title with a convincing 3-1 away win over San Diego FC on Saturday night German time. Now none other than Lionel Messi awaits in the final of the North American MLS with Inter Miami – a pairing that brings back memories of the 2014 World Cup final.

FC Bayern sent a clear message to its long-time top performer: „Congratulations, Thomas Müller and Vancouver Whitecaps! Win the final,“ the club’s Instagram story read. Under one of Müller’s own posts, the Munich team commented succinctly but clearly: „LEGEND“.

For the first time since their legendary duel in the 2014 World Cup final, the two world champions Müller and Messi will face each other again in a final. Back then, it was Germany who triumphed thanks to a goal from Mario Götze in extra time. Now, eleven years later, their paths are crossing in Major League Soccer.

Vancouver earned their ticket to the final by taking an early lead: Brian White scored in the 8th minute before an unfortunate own goal by San Diego keeper Pablo Sisniega made it 2-0. White increased the score to 3-0 before the break. Müller, who was the driving force behind the game, was substituted in the 61st minute. San Diego reduced the deficit shortly afterwards, but continued to play short-handed after the goalkeeper was given an emergency booking.

Müller: „We want to get the big one“

photo: IMAGO

After the final whistle, Müller immediately put what he had achieved in the background. „It’s not about taking any trophy for the Western Conference, we want to get the big one and we’re going for it now,“ explained the 36-year-old. For Vancouver, it would be the first championship in the club’s history, a milestone that Müller is actively working towards.

While the current focus is on the duel with Miami, Müller already has clear plans for his future. „I have a contract here until 2026 and will also be playing here in 2026. I’m looking forward to next season. This trip so far has been more of a short trip from mid-August to the end of November. It’s been so much fun that I’m really looking forward to the new season,“ revealed the 2014 world champion. This means that a return to Säbener Straße is not an issue, at least in the short term.

The showdown against Messi will take place on Saturday evening at 8:30 p.m. German time. The final will be kicked off earlier than usual in the MLS for better international broadcasting time. Not only in Canada and the USA, but also in Munich, people will be watching very closely – when two of the most influential figures in world soccer clash once again.