Silke Mayr Bayern Munich ended their Bundesliga season on a high note, delivering a powerful 4-0 win against Hoffenheim. The match was especially emotional as it marked the final league appearance of Thomas Müller, one of the most iconic players in the club’s history.
A Farewell to a Bayern Legend
Thomas Müller, 35, has spent his entire career at Bayern Munich. He has lifted 13 Bundesliga titles and two Champions League trophies during his time with the club. Sunday’s game marked his 503rd Bundesliga appearance, placing him 12th on the league’s all-time list.
Although Müller didn’t score in his last game, fans gave him a warm farewell. The stadium stood up for him as he left the pitch after 60 minutes. Harry Kane replaced him, and the crowd showed their love for the long-serving midfielder.
Müller is set to leave Bayern when his contract ends this summer. While he hasn’t confirmed his next step, many believe he may retire or take on a different role in football. What’s certain is that his departure marks the end of an era at Bayern.
First Half: Olise Opens the Floodgates
Bayern started strong, controlling the game from the kickoff. Their first goal came in the 33rd minute. Michael Olise curled a beautiful free-kick over the wall and into the corner of the net. Hoffenheim’s goalkeeper Oliver Baumann had no chance of stopping it.
Olise’s goal set the tone for the rest of the match. Bayern kept pushing, creating chance after chance. The home side, Hoffenheim, struggled to keep up with Bayern’s pace and passing.
Second Half: Bayern Turns Up the Heat
Hoffenheim had a golden opportunity early in the second half. Andrej Kramaric, who has scored more goals against Bayern than any current Bundesliga player, found himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. But Neuer, known for his big saves, blocked the shot and kept the scoreline at 1-0.
Just minutes later, Bayern made Hoffenheim pay. Joshua Kimmich scored from close range after a lucky deflection, making it 2-0. It was a simple finish, but one that crushed Hoffenheim’s hopes of a comeback.
Then came Serge Gnabry. The winger struck from the edge of the box with a low, powerful shot that beat Baumann once again. With the score now 3-0, the game was out of reach.
Harry Kane added the final touch. The England captain scored his 26th Bundesliga goal of the season, finishing off a smooth Bayern move. It was a perfect end to a near-perfect night.
Other Goodbyes and Transfer Talks
Müller wasn’t the only Bayern player possibly saying goodbye. Eric Dier, who joined the club on loan from Tottenham, also made his final appearance. Reports say he is set to join Monaco on a free transfer this summer.
Leroy Sane came on as a late substitute, and there are growing rumors that he may leave the club. Sane has had a mixed time at Bayern, and the upcoming transfer window could bring changes.
There’s also growing interest in Michael Olise. After his standout performance, clubs in England and Spain are said to be watching him closely.
Hoffenheim Avoids Relegation Scare
While Bayern was celebrating, Hoffenheim had reasons to breathe a sigh of relief. Despite the heavy loss, they managed to stay clear of the relegation play-off zone. Heidenheim’s defeat to Werder Bremen ensured that Hoffenheim stayed up.
Still, Hoffenheim fans will be worried about the team’s form. The club needs to rebuild over the summer and make key signings if they want to compete next season.
Bayern’s Bright Finish
With this win, Bayern Munich finished the season 13 points ahead of Bayer Leverkusen. It was another dominant season for the German giants, who once again showed why they are kings of the Bundesliga.
Although they missed out on Champions League glory, Bayern’s domestic form remains solid. The team has young stars like Jamal Musiala, Mathys Tel, and Joshua Kimmich to lead them into the future.
The club will now focus on finding a new manager and making smart transfer decisions. They’ll want to come back stronger next year, both in Germany and in Europe.
For Bayern fans, the final match of the season was both a celebration and a goodbye. While the future looks bright, saying farewell to Müller was a reminder that even legends must one day move on.