According to reports, the Club World Cup, which will be held in the U.S. at the end of the club season, will be the last tournament where Thomas Muller will play for Bayern Munich.

Muller and Bayern confirmed that his contract will not be renewed, and he will leave at the end of the season. However, the club and Muller agreed that he would also participate in the Club World Cup. Today, Muller spoke to FIFA’s website about the tournament, which will be held in a new format.

*How exciting is the Club World Cup for you?
You know how exciting the World Cup is. The new format of the Club World Cup resembles the World Cup, making it exciting compared to the previous version, where only a few teams participated. I don’t know what percentage of Champions League winners have won the Club World Cup, but I think it’s very high. European teams have always been successful. First, we have to go and see how this new tournament feels. The fact that the Club World Cup is in the same country hosting the next World Cup is exciting for us.

*Exciting match between Bayern Munich and Boca Juniors?
Playing against Boca is very exciting. These days, I follow South American football and the Argentine league a lot. One of my former teammates, Martin Demichelis, is the manager of River Plate. Watching their matches against Boca is incredible. When traditional football countries like Brazil and Argentina have historic clubs playing against each other, it’s a different atmosphere. We look forward to playing against clubs from other cultures and reaching the knockout stages.

*How many fans does Bayern have in the U.S.?
We know we have many fans. Of course, I think it’s natural because we are a special club with supporters worldwide. Moreover, compared to other big clubs, we have a unique ownership model known as the 50+1 rule in Germany. Bayern is not owned by one or a few wealthy individuals. We are a people’s club and Bavarian, yet one of the biggest clubs in the world.

*What is Thomas Muller’s strength?
That I appeared much more dangerously in the penalty area and scored more goals than I imagined. Journalists and fans often notice how, with my technical characteristics, I managed to score so many goals. I’m not a special player, but perhaps one thing that sets me apart from similar players in my position is that I think a lot about positioning and my role on the pitch. Moreover, I’ve had great coaches who emphasized this aspect of football, from Louis van Gaal to Pep Guardiola. Now, with Thomas Tuchel, it’s the same.

*What still motivates you?
Love for football and love for winning. These are important and not something you acquire. It must be in your nature. I like to compete within the team and against other teams, proving myself in every game. I am someone who likes to endure hardships and win. This gives me a good feeling. It’s not just about winning trophies. The trophy is just a piece of metal given to the champion, but that’s not what makes me happy. The journey, winning along the way, and proving myself are what motivate me.