Lahm smooths over Bayern confusion: It is clear I will return

Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm says he still expects to return to the club in the future despite appearing to frustrate their hierarchy in announcing his retirement.

Lahm announced on Tuesday that he would be retiring at the end of the season, a year ahead of the expiration of his Bayern contract.

The defender also revealed he would not take up a planned post of sporting director with the German champions, instead taking a sabbatical to reflect on a next move.

Bayern, though, revealed the 33-year-old’s decision to retire had initially taken them by surprise and that they had expected to announce the news in a joint statement, rather than Lahm doing so personally.

Lahm attempted to provide some clarity by making a Twitter statement on Thursday, which read: „Having had a day to process my decision, I would like to share some more detailed thoughts regarding the choice to end my football career this summer.

„Just as with my retirement from the national team, I trust my inner senses. As a captain, it’s very important for me to always deliver a top quality performance, and I realise that I won’t be able to do so beyond this season.