The Dutchman is refusing to restrict his options when it comes to hanging up his boots and says he loves the variety that Pep Guardiola’s tactics bring to Bayern
Arjen Robben says he will keep playing for Bayern Munich until his body betrays him – whether that’s in 2016 or in 10 years’ time.
The Dutchman broke through the ranks at Groningen in 2000 before making waves at PSV, where he was promptly plucked from relative Eredivisie obscurity by cash-rich Chelsea in 2004.
Three seasons at Stamford Bridge were followed by two years with Real Madrid, but he has arguably discovered the best form of his life at Bayern Munich, with whom he has been playing since a €25 million switch in 2009.
Robben was one of three current Bayern stars in the FIFPro World XI revealed at the Ballon d’Or gala on Monday and the Dutch winger, who turns 31 this month, is holding his cards close to his chest regarding when he might retire.
“I get asked when I will finish my career more often now, since I am getting older,” he told reporters. “I am very relaxed on this.
“As long as my body works and I’m having fun, I will go on. Maybe one, maybe two or maybe 10 years. The older you get, the better you get to know you body.”
Robben has always been glowing in his opinion of Allianz Arena head coach Pep Guardiola and the Netherlands international is a firm believer that he has been improved by the ex-Barcelona boss over the past season and a half.
“With Pep, I had a good feeling from the start,” Robben added. “He tried to improve the team, but also tried to improve each player.
“I am thankful that I have worked with him for 18 months now. He made me develop and I thank him for that.
“We’ve played in several systems and that makes you develop as a player. I’ve had different positions; I like that, it’s fun. It’s fun to go into a tactical meeting and learn how you play somewhere new. Plus it surprises the opponent.”
Bundesliga leaders Bayern, currently playing money-spinning friendlies during the lengthy German winter break, are back in action on Friday January 30 against second-placed Wolfsburg.