Bayern Munich and Germany legend Bastian Schweinsteiger looks set to be staying down south, seemingly ending rumors that the midfielder was set to join Louis van Gaal at Premier League club Manchester United.
Bastian Schweinsteiger looks to have chosen his heart over his head after the 30-year-old hinted he would be staying at "his" Bayern Munich in an interview with German broadcaster Sport 1. "I feel good and am ready to play at the top level in the next three years. That is my goal."
With Manchester United Head Coach Louis van Gaal apparently interested in securing Schweinsteiger's services this summer, the midfielder was set to have talks with Bayern's boardroom amid rumors of a departure. Now though, Schweinsteiger's motivation for more silverware next season is clear, as is the team with which he wants to win them with. "We have won the league three years in a row, and I don't think a team in Germany has managed four consecutive titles - that is motivation," said Schweinsteiger, who has one year remaining on his contract.
"I would like to win the Champions League again, but also play as well as we did in recent years," said the midfielder ahead of his 18th season in Bayern colors.
Germany role a factor
With Germany Head Coach Joachim Löw tending to have a preference for Bundesliga players, Schweinsteiger seems even more unlikely to make a move - one that would be the first of his career - at the age of 30. "Next year is the 2016 Euros. Obviously being there is a goal of mine and for the whole of German football. You work towards such goals," said Germany's current captain.
Bayern and Germany legend Franz Beckenbauer recently advised Schweinsteiger to stay: "A move to another European top team is difficult at that age. He [Schweinsteiger] has always played with a lot of energy and has done so at the top level for a number of years. That wears you down. He can end his career in the USA later on."
Right now though, a move to the MLS - or anywhere else it seems - is not even a topic of discussion. "When players win titles like the Champions League or the World Cup, then many people think players don't have the drive [to win] anymore. But I don't see it that way."
On top of Germany's World Cup win in Brazil, Schweinsteiger's trophy cabinet includes seven doubles with Bayern Munich, as well as a Champions League. Last season, "Schweini" made 28 appearances in all competitions, scoring five goals and assisting eight.