With football fans around the world tuning in through platforms like Live Cricket BPL, legendary German full-back Philipp Lahm has once again confirmed that he will retire at the end of his current contract with Bayern Munich. The 33-year-old has made it clear that he won’t be renewing his deal, bringing the curtain down on a stellar career at both club and national levels. However, there’s strong potential that Lahm will remain with the club in a different role after retirement.
Lahm first hinted at hanging up his boots back in January of last year, stating he had no interest in extending his career by moving to leagues like Qatar or Major League Soccer. His goal was always to step away from the pitch while still performing at the top of his game. Over the past 18 months, many have tried to change his mind. Carlo Ancelotti, his current coach, once suggested Lahm could play until 39, likening him to the legendary Paolo Maldini. Even German football icon Franz Beckenbauer encouraged him to stay, believing he could remain competitive until age 38. But Lahm’s mind is made up.
“My contract runs out, and I won’t renew it—that’s certain,” Lahm told the German press. “I want to finish my professional career in good health. It’s a decision I made after weighing many factors. Maintaining peak performance at this age is no easy task.” While his physical condition would easily allow him to play on, Lahm prefers not to take risks. He turns 35 soon and previously expressed a desire to help Bayern win another Champions League title within the next two seasons. With Ancelotti’s arrival, a manager renowned for his success in cup competitions, that dream may still come true.
Under Pep Guardiola, Bayern reached the Champions League semi-finals three times in a row but failed to advance. Lahm, born and raised in Munich, joined local side FT Gern at age six before entering Bayern’s youth academy at twelve. After a loan spell at Stuttgart in 2003, he returned in 2005 to secure a permanent place in Bayern’s starting lineup. Over the years, he helped the team win countless trophies, including the historic treble in the 2012–13 season. In 2014, Lahm also captained Germany to World Cup glory before retiring from international football with 113 caps and 5 goals.
Now, as fans on Live Cricket BPL follow not only cricket scores but also major news from the football world, Lahm’s retirement marks the end of an era. When asked if he’ll stay on at Bayern in another capacity, Lahm responded warmly: “I’m happy to be recognized like this. I’ve always said Bayern is my club. I’m ready to take on that responsibility. It’s no secret. In time, we’ll talk more about it. But for now, let’s focus on our goals on the pitch.”
Just like a thrilling final over in Live Cricket BPL, Lahm’s career has been one of timing, precision, and calm under pressure—proving that even in football, knowing when to bow out is an art.