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Football has brought together two of the biggest names of the last decade in a setting that would have been unthinkable a few years ago: Major League Soccer. However, before the ball rolls in the eagerly awaited clash between Vancouver Whitecaps and Minnesota United, it was the German's cheeky comment that has set social media alight by reminding fans of one of his former teammate and friend's well-known 'weaknesses'.
A reunion with a Bavarian taste of nostalgia
It was the period between 2017 and 2019 when Müller and James shared a dressing room at Bayern Munich. At that time, the Colombian's elegance and the German's tactical intelligence combined to give great afternoons at the Allianz Arena. But it was not all about football; the harsh and persistent German winter was a difficult opponent for the Colombian national team player.
In a video recently published by the official Vancouver Whitecaps social media channels, Muller, with his characteristic smile, could not help but show his surprise at James' new destination. "I was a bit surprised that he chose Minnesota,” confessed the German. “I remember in Munich he always said he was freezing, that it was too cold for him. And now he’s going to Minnesota, which is probably the coldest place in the United States!”
Minnesota: The 'Fridge' of MLS
Muller's joke is not without geographical foundation. Minnesota is popularly known as the 'North Star State', but also for its extreme winters that can reach temperatures as low as -30°C. For a player who has publicly expressed his preference for warmer climates — and who suffered the cold temperatures in both Madrid and Munich — the choice of Minnesota United has generated curiosity in the football world.
Despite the climate warnings, James seems focused on a bigger goal: the 2026 World Cup. His arrival at the Loons is not a climatic coincidence, but a six-month sporting gamble to regain competitive rhythm and be in full condition for the World Cup, which will be held in North America.
Golden Boot Duel: A historic milestone for MLS
Beyond the anecdotes about the thermometer, Sunday's clash at BC Place in Vancouver marks a milestone for the league. It will be the first time that two World Cup Golden Boot winners have faced each other in MLS:
- Thomas Müller: Golden Boot at South Africa 2010.
- James Rodriguez: Golden Boot at Brazil 2014.
Both players arrive at different times. Müller, at 36, has quickly adapted to life in Canada, already scoring two goals in the first three games of the season. James, on the other hand, is looking for his official debut after overcoming a bruise that delayed his debut. “I’m coming to a team that’s already made, not to be the savior, but to be one more and be able to help,” said the Colombian beforehand.
Salary realities and expectations
The intrigue of the encounter also extends to the numbers. Recent reports suggest that James Rodriguez earns a salary of close to $5 million annually in Minnesota, a figure significantly higher than the $1.4 million that Muller receives in Vancouver. This difference underlines the US club’s economic commitment to the Colombian’s media and sporting profile.
