Thomas Müller is accompanying the 2026 World Cup as a TV expert. In an interview with t-online, he draws an initial conclusion – and talks about the DFB team’s next challenges.
At the last world championships Thomas Müller even for them German national team on the lawn. He is now following the 2026 tournament as a fan – and at the same time in the role as an expert for MagentaTV. A completely new experience for the 36-year-old.
t-online spoke to Müller about his first days in front of the camera. The 2014 world champion takes part in a controversial exchange Jurgen Klopp Position. He also talks about his future plans – and defends a former teammate.
t-online: Mr. Müller, at the World Cup 2026 you are working as a TV expert for the first time. What is your conclusion about the first days in your new job?
Thomas Müller: I can already see how much I enjoy the whole thing – especially working in the stadiums with my colleagues. I enjoy analyzing game scenes in detail that the viewer in front of the TV screen might not see at first glance. In such moments, with my many years of football experience, I might also provide one or two interesting pieces of information that I can use to explain the game and the… WM make something more tangible for the fans.
This is the first World Cup for you since 2006 that you will only be watching as a spectator. Are you feeling particularly itchy these days because you actually want to play along?
Sure, sometimes of course. There’s a reason why I’m still on the pitch in my main job. Playing football is still my greatest passion.
Have you already received feedback from the DFB team about your work as an expert? National player Deniz Undav recently said at a press conference that he would not call you as long as your analyzes were correct.
So far I haven’t received a call. Now the question is how to interpret that. Maybe he didn’t have the courage or maybe he liked my suggestion to put him in the starting line-up against Curaçao. (grins)
At least he has shown himself to be open to criticism, but also to praise. His words: “No matter what Thomas says, Thomas is allowed.”
My approach as an expert is clear: Even when I say something critical, it is never about embarrassing or attacking anyone. I observe and name things as I see and feel them.