Articles / Thomas Müller came to Vancouver to win trophies. Now he's aiming for Messi

Thomas Müller came to Vancouver to win trophies. Now he's aiming for Messi

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The Province Hockey
Nov 30, 2025 5:21 PM

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In a surprising turn of events, Thomas Müller, the German football star, expressed his admiration for the growing soccer scene in Vancouver, particularly regarding the impact of Lionel Messi joining Inter Miami. Müller noted how Messi's presence has not only raised the level of competition within Major League Soccer (MLS) but has also excited fans across North America, including those in British Columbia, historically known for their passion for hockey.

The Vancouver Whitecaps, one of the key players in the local soccer scene, are eager to ride this wave of enthusiasm and draw more fans to their games. Müller emphasized the importance of such iconic players like Messi in attracting attention to the sport, akin to what Wayne Gretzky did for hockey in the 1980s. He hopes that this era will lead to a significant increase in attendance and interest in soccer, much like what has been seen with the Vancouver Canucks in the NHL.

Moreover, Müller pointed out that the fusion of soccer and the city's rich hockey culture could present unique opportunities for collaboration between the sports. With both sports sharing passionate fan bases, Müller believes that the cross-promotion could benefit both leagues, ultimately creating a more vibrant sporting landscape in Vancouver and setting a precedent in North America as a whole.