Overview

• Thomas Muller rejected claims that the sweltering 36°C heat in Charlotte justified Bayern’s 1-0 loss to Benfica.
• The 35-year-old forward stressed that age and conditioning leave “no excuses” for the squad.
• Players and managers from other sides, including Atletico’s Marcos Llorente and Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca, publicly cited the extreme weather as a factor.
• Bayern relinquished top spot in Group C and now prepare to face Flamengo in the Club World Cup last 16 on June 29.
• Muller will depart Bayern after 17 seasons and has not ruled out a move to Major League Soccer when his playing career continues.