Former German international Niklas Süle has joined SV Tiefenbach in the ninth division of German football after ending his professional career.
The 31-year-old defender, who previously earned major titles with Bayern Munich, transitioned from the elite level to the lower tiers of the German league system within the last year. Süle explained his decision to move away from professional football during an appearance on the After the final Whistle podcast.
Süle expressed a desire to prioritize personal enjoyment and social connection over the rigorous demands of a professional athlete’s lifestyle. He said that the intense focus required for a long-term career in top-flight football was no longer his priority.
“I just want to play football and have a beer with my friends,” Süle said, according to CNN Portugal. “I didn’t want to be focused on football for 15 years, I wanted to have fun.”
Süle reflected on the strict dietary and lifestyle constraints that defined his time as a professional player. He admitted that his previous lifestyle involved frequent consumption of less healthy options while maintaining a high-level career.
“As a professional, I drank and ate hamburgers. I consumed beer and McDonald’s very frequently,” Süle told the After the final Whistle podcast.
The defender also discussed the psychological pressure of public scrutiny and the constant comparison to other players. He mentioned that he spent much time adjusting to the weight of his own reputation and the expectations placed upon him as a high-profile athlete.
“I don’t want five, six or seven television teams following me like they did during my first games in the ninth division,” Süle said, as reported by CNN Portugal. “I think one of the worst things people can do is constantly compare themselves to others. I am not just Niklas Süle and it took me time to get used to that.”
Before his move to SV Tiefenbach, Süle played extensively in European football. His career was highlighted by his tenure at Bayern Munich, where he secured several major trophies.
His professional achievements include:
- Five German Bundesliga titles
- One UEFA Champions League title
While Süle acknowledged that his social media presence could have generated more sponsorships during his professional years, he appeared to prioritize his current mental well-being and freedom over commercial gain.
Süle said that he wanted to enjoy life and play football without the intense, long-term focus required of a professional. He expressed a desire to play for fun and spend time with friends rather than maintaining a strict professional regimen.
The defender played for Bayern Munich, where he won the Champions League and five Bundesliga titles. He is also a former German international player.
SV Tiefenbach competes in the ninth tier of the German football league system.
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