Key Takeaways:
- On Tuesday, Thomas Müller arrived in Vancouver and was greeted by Whitecaps fans and the Musqueam orchestra
- The 35-year-old World Cup winner has signed a contract with Vancouver Whitecaps until the end of 2026
- Müller is set to make his Major League Soccer debut at home against Houston Dynamo FC on Sunday
Warm Reception for a World Cup Winner
Upon his arrival in Canada, former Bayern Munich forward Thomas Müller was welcomed enthusiastically by Vancouver Whitecaps supporters. The 35-year-old was met at Vancouver International Airport by members of the Musqueam orchestra, who performed a traditional drum march, and Chief Wayne Sparrow, who offered an official greeting. This marked the start of Müller’s new journey in Major League Soccer after an illustrious run in European football.
What a night! 🤩
A big thank you to @White_Spot, @yvrairport, and the best supporters in the league for making it unforgettable! Thomas truly felt the love. 🙌#VWFC x #TM13 pic.twitter.com/vlqD0on1qM
— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) August 14, 2025
Müller’s Career and Move to MLS
After failing to secure a contract extension at Bayern Munich, Müller parted ways with the club where he accumulated numerous honours, including treble-winning campaigns in both 2013 and 2020. Müller, who lifted the FIFA World Cup with Germany in 2014, will remain with Vancouver Whitecaps until the conclusion of the 2026 season under his new agreement.
Arrival Activities and First Public Appearance
Once inside the arrivals hall, Müller signed his first autographs for eager fans. Shortly after, he attended a local sports bar alongside supporters watching the opening semifinal of the Canadian Championship, where the Whitecaps were taking on Forge FC. While at the event, Müller told fans: “I am happy to be here, to be a Whitecaps player. We want to create the future, but the match is still on, so we need to support the boys.”
The match ended in a 2:2 draw, though Müller departed the venue before the final whistle in a dark van. The Canadian Championship, contested annually, crowns the national champion in Canadian club football.
Upcoming Engagements and Competitive Fixtures
Müller is scheduled for his first press conference as a Vancouver player on Thursday and is expected to join his teammates for training the following day. Club officials anticipate that he will make his debut Major League Soccer appearance at home against Houston Dynamo FC on Sunday.
The MLS, the leading professional football league across the USA and Canada, began its current season in February. Only three Canadian clubs participate in MLS competition, while the Canadian Championship is organised separately as an annual knockout tournament to determine the top side in the country.
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Thomas Müller Arrival in Vancouver | Tuesday | Musqueam orchestra drum march, speech by Chief Wayne Sparrow |
| Canadian Championship Semi-final (Whitecaps vs Forge FC) | Same day as arrival | Match ended 2:2; Müller present at sports bar |
| First Media Conference | Thursday | Müller to be formally introduced to media |
| First Team Training | Friday (expected) | Müller set to join Whitecaps teammates |
| MLS Debut vs Houston Dynamo FC | Sunday | First league match for Müller (at home) |
