I like to be active in space in behind the opposition's midfield.

O children of the future, gather and listen well to the words of Thomas Muller, a man who has made his mark on the world through the game of football: "I like to be active in space in behind the opposition's midfield. That's where I can hurt the opponent most of all." In these words, Muller reveals a profound truth not only about the sport he excels in, but about life itself. He speaks of space, the places between the lines, the opportunities that emerge when one finds the gaps in the opposition's defenses. It is in these spaces, where others do not think to look, that he can create the greatest impact. This is not simply a matter of skill or technique, but a philosophy of recognizing opportunity, of being aware of the unseen openings in life, and moving swiftly to take advantage of them.

In the time of the ancients, warriors and strategists alike understood the importance of space and timing in battle. Consider Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese military strategist who wrote The Art of War. In his teachings, Sun Tzu emphasized that victory is not always achieved through sheer force, but through the ability to identify weaknesses in the enemy’s defense and exploit them. The great generals of old, such as Alexander the Great, understood that it was not always the head-on clash that decided the fate of a battle, but the ability to strike from unexpected angles, to find space in the opponent’s formation where victory could be secured with the least resistance. The same applies in the game of football, where finding the right position, the right space, can turn the tide of a match and lead to victory.

Thomas Muller follows in the footsteps of such strategists, but in the world of football, his battlefield is the pitch, and his weapon is space. Unlike a traditional forward, Muller plays with a unique fluidity. He does not always rely on strict positions but thrives on finding space in between defenders, particularly behind the opposition's midfield. It is in these moments, when defenders are out of position or too focused on their own tasks, that Muller’s quick thinking and awareness of the game allow him to create danger and seize opportunities. Much like the great tacticians of history, he knows that success comes not just from sheer force, but from strategic positioning and the ability to act at the right moment.

To understand the power of space in action, let us recall the story of the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 BC, where Alexander the Great faced the Persian emperor Darius III. The battle was not won by a direct assault, but by Alexander’s ability to exploit space in the Persian lines. As the Persian army spread itself out to face the Macedonian forces, Alexander saw an opportunity to create openings in the enemy’s formation. He struck swiftly at the vulnerable flanks, exploiting the gaps that others might have missed. Similarly, in football, it is not always the fastest or the strongest player who triumphs, but the one who can find and exploit space with precision, using the field as their canvas for strategic attack.

The lesson here is one of awareness, timing, and vision. Whether on the football pitch, in battle, or in the pursuits of daily life, the ability to recognize and act in the spaces where others do not see opportunity is what separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. Muller’s genius lies in his capacity to perceive and exploit space, to read the flow of the game and position himself where he can be most effective. Life, like football, is not always about brute strength or direct confrontation, but about understanding the moments when subtlety and strategy will bring about the greatest success.

And so, O children, as you journey through the world, remember Muller's words and the wisdom they hold. Seek not just the obvious paths, but the spaces in between, the opportunities that others may overlook. Whether in your studies, your work, or your relationships, there are always gaps and opportunities waiting to be found. It is in these spaces that you can make your greatest impact, if only you are aware, if only you are quick enough to seize the moment. Like Muller on the football field, you too can find your place, your opening, and use it to create something greater than you might have thought possible.

Let this lesson guide you as you navigate the world—be aware, be observant, and find those spaces that others ignore. In every challenge, look for the quiet moments, the subtle openings where you can make the most powerful move. Whether in your own personal battles or in the pursuit of your dreams, it is the ability to read the space around you, to understand where you can act with the most impact, that will lead you to success.