Bayern Munich Farewell to 25-year-old stalwart Thomas Müller

Munich (AP) – Bayern Munich fans paid tribute to Thomas Müller before, during and after his last home game for the club on Saturday. “We all knew that this moment would come. I also knew, ‘Müller told Bayern supporters after a 2-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach. “And I’m very happy about it … that we got this trophy in Munich!” Bayern clinched the Bundesliga title last weekend, but had to wait until after Saturday’s game to get the trophy. The celebrations were centered on Müller after his 750th game for the Bavarian Power Station. For that, supporters behind one of the goals displayed a big red and white tifo with photos of Müller who celebrated and lifted trophies, accompanied by his name in giant letters, and a banner above and said, “For 25 years all for our colors!” Club officials also offered 35-year-old Müller a photo of himself with all the trophies he won with Bayern. “Let’s play!” He shouted as he brought the picture and a bouquet of flowers to the sidelines. Müller made his 502nd Bundesliga appearance. He played until the 84th minute when he went to the crowd apple. He embraced teammates as he left the field, kissing and waving to the crowd. Bayern’s substitutes formed an honor guard for him. Müller leaves at the end of the season after winning a record 13 league titles with the club. “I’ll miss it. I loved being the modern gladiator, ‘Müller told the fans. “But I’m not sad. I look forward to what’s coming, even if it’s only half as good as that. ‘ Bayern announced in April that this season will be Müller’s last with the club. Despite limited playing time, he was eager to expand his contract, but Bayern management felt that it was wise to save his substantial wage package than to offer him a new one. Müller joined Bayern in the summer of 2000 as ten -year -old from TSV Pähl, a small Bavarian club based in southwest Munich. He appeared beyond any other player at Bayern, scored with more than 200 goals and set more than 200 for other players. ___