Vancouver Whitecaps striker Thomas Müller expressed that the MLS Cup on December 6 against Inter Miami represents the ideal finale, highlighting that the playing styles of both squads promise an exhilarating contest.
«I believe this match is fantastic. I understand that you all, the media, and MLS, it makes sense to emphasize names like Messi and myself, but ultimately it’s about two teams offering an attractive and visually appealing style of play,» Müller stated. «In my view, this is the perfect finale. I’m grateful to be part of this event.»
Müller will reconnect with familiar rivals Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez on the pitch after facing these Inter Miami stars multiple times while representing Bayern Munich and the German national team. Müller last competed against Messi’s Barcelona in the 2019-20 Champions League, with Bayern securing a stunning 8-2 victory.
However, Müller and Messi last met when Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern clashed in the Champions League on March 8, 2023.
«For me, it’s always enjoyable to reconnect with old acquaintances. While we aren’t particularly close, I’ve always admired their play, and they are remarkable athletes, some still are,» Müller mentioned. «It’s always a pleasure to reflect on shared history and meet them once more.»
«Concerning results or past encounters, what has happened is not that critical for the future, but it’s nice to see them.»
The Vancouver forward boasts a record of seven victories and three defeats against teams featuring Messi.
Müller and Germany triumphed over Argentina 4-0 in the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals and again 1-0 in the 2014 World Cup final, securing the championship. Inter Miami’s head coach Javier Mascherano was also part of the Argentine squad that fell to Germany in both World Cup knockout matches.
«I don’t have fond memories of him,» Mascherano joked when queried about Müller before praising the German forward. «He’s a player I’ve faced for countless years, both at the national team and club level. A player who is undoubtedly among the best of his generation, a world champion who has won everything with Bayern. A player who brings a unique level of prestige not just to Vancouver, but to the entire league and MLS. A truly exceptional athlete. Let’s hope luck is on our side tomorrow.»
Nonetheless, Müller stated that past statistics and victories do not influence his mindset heading into the MLS final, as those achievements are behind him.
«When I reflect on the past, I feel at ease with that because it’s already in the records,» Müller remarked. «And I have had many wonderful experiences in those matches with my teams, so it was enjoyable. However, it doesn’t really matter for Saturday.»
«It’s a new match, perhaps it gives you the impression that I always have confidence to prevail or to compete with someone as both an individual and team. Thus, I don’t rely too heavily on my history to feel confident, similar to the guys who have defeated Inter Miami twice this season, but what does that signify? It offers a slight sense of reassurance, but ultimately, the outcome is determined on the field.»
«Saturday is in the future. It’s a pleasant topic to discuss, and I hope we can continue this conversation after the match on Saturday.»
Müller referenced his squad’s two wins against Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals, where the Whitecaps eliminated the Herons by an aggregate score of 5-1.
