Nine years ago today, I stepped onto the Bundesliga pitch and played my last match for Bayern Munich. Not only was this a significant moment in my career, but it was also my 500th official match for this great club. Looking back on these years of experience, it all seems like it was just yesterday, filling me with deep emotion.
From the first time I donned the Bayern jersey to the moment I finally left that familiar pitch, this journey has been filled with countless memories and emotions. Every time I stepped onto the field, every victory, every goal was a testament to the hard work and dedication I shared with the team. Five hundred matches are not just a number; they represent all the effort and commitment I’ve given here, symbolizing the deep emotional bonds between me, my teammates, coaches, and the fans.
During my time at Bayern Munich, I experienced many unforgettable moments. Together, we won countless honors—league titles, DFB-Pokals, and Champions League trophies. Every trophy is a testament to our relentless efforts and unity. Whether it was exhilarating victories or heartbreaking defeats, all these experiences left an indelible mark on my heart.
However, football is not just about winning and losing; it is a way of life, a belief. The Bayern spirit, "Mia san mia," not only motivated us to fight on the pitch but also profoundly influenced our attitude toward life. Here, I learned what true team spirit is and what it means to have a fighting spirit that never gives up. Whether on the pitch or in life, this spirit will accompany me for the rest of my life.
Completing 500 matches is a proud achievement, but what I cherish most are the friendships and memories I’ve made on this journey. The times spent fighting alongside my teammates, discussing tactics with the coaches, and receiving the passionate support of the fans are the most precious assets of my career. Every time I stood on the Allianz Arena pitch and heard the fans singing the team anthem, it filled me with a surge of emotion that words cannot describe.
Now, nine years have passed, and although I no longer play for Bayern, these memories remain as clear as ever. I often reminisce about that time, feeling incredibly fortunate to have been a part of Bayern's history. This club not only gave me endless glory but also shaped me in every aspect as a player and a person.
"Mia san mia" is not just a slogan; it is a spirit, a culture. It symbolizes confidence, resilience, and teamwork, and it is this spirit that has kept Bayern Munich standing strong in the world of football. I am incredibly proud to have spent such an important part of my career at this club. I will forever cherish these memories and take pride in them.
Nine years ago today, I played my 500th match, bringing this glorious chapter of my career to a close. But I know this is not the end, but a new beginning. Everything I’ve learned over these years will continue to inspire me to move forward bravely on the road ahead. No matter where I am, I will always remember that I was once a part of Bayern and that I contributed to this great team.
Today, as I look back on that journey, I am filled with gratitude. Thank you, Bayern Munich. Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, and fans. Thank you for helping me become who I am today. In the future, no matter where I am, Bayern will always be in my heart. Mia san mia, we are who we are, and I will always be a part of Bayern.