Thomas Muller shared a smile when asked about being labeled the “villain” before the MLS Cup final against Inter Miami. Facing a team with stars like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets, he could have reminisced about his 8-2 victory over Barcelona in 2020. That remarkable Champions League match saw Muller score twice, leading Bayern Munich to a stunning win.
At 36, Muller, one of football’s most accomplished players, preferred to keep the focus light. During a media session with teammate Sebastian Berhalter, he often referenced home advantage for Inter Miami. Historically, out of the last 14 finals, 11 home teams have emerged victorious. When Muller asked about the chances of winning, he quipped, “10%? 20? Or less?” When assured there was a chance, he lit up.
With Bayern, Muller has celebrated 10 finals wins, including two Champions Leagues. He’s also experienced defeat in four finals. He pointed out that MLS is eager to promote a storyline featuring him and Messi, but he emphasized that this match is about two talented teams, not just individual stars.
Muller reflected on his past successes but noted those experiences wouldn’t dictate the outcome on Saturday. “My history doesn’t matter that much for confidence,” he said.
Interestingly, viewership in the MLS has surged since Messi’s arrival, with a recent study showing a 25% increase in ratings for Inter Miami matches. This arrival of global stars like Messi has sparked a new interest in soccer in the U.S., highlighting how player dynamics shape the narrative of competitions.
As fans gear up for the final, social media buzzes with excitement, showcasing support for both teams. The focus remains not just on huge names but also on the teamwork and playing styles that make the match thrilling.
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