Malik Tillman on PSV move: "Bayern didn't want me anymore"

10/10/2024 05:41 PM

Malik Tillman at one time looked destined to become a key player for Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich but instead has made his mark in the Netherlands with PSV.

Tillman, who is in his second season with the reigning Eredivisie champions, is currently with the U.S. men’s national team for October’s friendlies vs. Panama and Mexico. The former Bayern Munich youth player excelled while on loan at PSV last season, scoring nine goals and adding 15 assists en route to his first league title at club level.

While it originally looked like Tillman was going to end up at Bayern long-term, PSV acquired the 22-year-old midfielder on a permanent deal last summer, linking him up with USMNT teammates Ricardo Pepi and Sergino Dest, as well as dual-national Richie Ledezma.

Tillman has continued to reap the rewards of moving to Eindhoven permanently, scoring four goals and adding two assists in 11 combined appearances this fall. He’s helped PSV to an unbeaten start domestically as well as one point in its first two UEFA Champions League group phase matches.

While he is focused on Saturday’s showdown with Panama in Austin, Texas, Tillman admitted that he wanted to stay at PSV after all following an impactful loan spell.

“The whole thing was up to Bayern, and they basically didn’t want me anymore,” said Tillman on Thursday during a conference call with media. “PSV had the right to buy me. They were the first option, and so I didn’t really have a chance to say anything.

“I’m still happy at PSV,” added Tillman. “I also wanted to stay at PSV, so it’s a good thing.”

Tillman, who debuted for the USMNT in 2022, is still seeking his first international goal after earning 14 caps to date. He will be one of several midfielders in the mix for playing time over the next five days.