Overview
- In the Süddeutsche Zeitung interview, the 36-year-old says becoming an “Ergänzungsspieler” under Vincent Kompany led him to seek greater on-field influence.
- After Bayern chose not to renew his contract, he signed with the Vancouver Whitecaps in August 2025 and rejected European options such as AC Fiorentina to keep competing for titles.
- He captained Vancouver to the MLS final, where the Whitecaps lost 3–1 to Inter Miami featuring Lionel Messi.
- He describes parting with Bayern as amicable and says he would not trade any of his years in Munich, noting the club’s intense daily scrutiny.
- He remains undecided about life after playing and is considering sports management studies or a coaching license.