Thomas Müller Calls Messi Football’s Greatest Before MLS Showdown

Throughout his decorated career, Lionel Messi has faced many challenges, but few opponents have consistently tested him like Bayern Munich’s Thomas Müller. While many immediately think of Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo as Messi’s main hurdles, it is Müller who has frequently caused him headaches on the pitch.

Fans now eagerly await a fresh chapter in the Messi-Müller rivalry. This Sunday’s MLS Cup Final will pit Messi’s Inter Miami against Müller’s Vancouver Whitecaps, with both clubs reaching the final for the first time in their histories.

Vancouver Whitecaps punched their ticket to the final with a 3–1 victory over San Diego, while Inter Miami dismantled New York City FC 5–1 to secure their historic spot.

Müller, who has a long history of competing against Messi, offered glowing praise for the Argentine ahead of the final. Known for his psychological sharpness and relentless work ethic, Müller has repeatedly challenged Messi, from the Bundesliga to international tournaments.

In an interview with MLSsoccer.com, Müller named Messi the greatest footballer of all time. “Messi has changed the game. An eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, he has drawn more fans to MLS and increased the league’s profile. The more people watch him, the more it benefits everyone involved—his team, his club, and the sport itself,” he remarked.

On the head-to-head record, Müller leads comfortably. Of their ten encounters, the German has won seven, while Messi has claimed victory on three occasions. The 2014 World Cup final, where Messi’s dreams were dashed, remains a painful memory.

Despite their personal history, Müller stressed the importance of teamwork over rivalry. “This final is not Messi versus Thomas Müller; it’s Inter Miami against Vancouver. Miami may lean on him more, but Vancouver is a cohesive team. That’s the difference,” said the 36-year-old, highlighting the collective strength of his side.

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