Despite his imminent departure, Sane is set to represent the Bavarians until his contract expires on June 30, before joining the Turkish champions as a free agent. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Bayern legend Lothar Matthaus, who questioned the logic behind Sane's inclusion.

"I can't fathom why they've brought him to the Club World Cup, particularly after he didn't feature in the 10-0 thrashing of Auckland City," Matthaus wrote in his Sky column. "With players like Gnabry, Coman, and hungry youngsters ready to prove themselves, what's the point of having him there?"

Bayern, however, insisted Sane's participation was at his own request. Sporting director Max Eberl explained the unusual arrangement, saying, "If a player receives another offer and chooses to leave, that's normal. The fact there's no bad blood is shown by our agreement that he'll stay for the group stage and possibly the round of 16."

Sane, who arrived in Istanbul to complete his medical and don the Galatasaray number 10 shirt, will return to the United States to play in Bayern's group matches against Boca Juniors on June 21 and Benfica on June 24, having missed the Auckland City rout. Should Bayern advance, he could also feature in a potential last-16 tie before his contract ends.

Matthaus, while critical of Sane's role in the tournament, supported the 29-year-old's decision to seek a fresh challenge. "Leroy can change games, but he faced heavy criticism in Munich from fans and media. Not everyone at Bayern backed him fully, so I understand why he's chosen Istanbul," he said.

"Galatasaray are ambitious, compete in the Champions League, and are professionally run. The Turkish league is stronger than many in Germany realize, even if it's not quite the Bundesliga."

Galatasaray confirmed the transfer on June 12, announcing Sane's annual salary of 9 million euros plus a 3 million euro loyalty bonus. Over 3.2 million fans tracked his arrival in Istanbul via a YouTube live stream, underscoring the excitement surrounding his move.

Recent posts on X from Bayern's official account reaffirmed their stance, stating, "Before his move to Galatasaray, Leroy Sane will be in action for Bayern at the Club World Cup until June 30." Coach Vincent Kompany also expressed a desire to utilize Sane, with sources indicating it was the manager's wish to keep him for the group stage.

Sane's final act in a Bayern shirt promises to be a curious footnote in his five-year stint, where he scored 61 goals in 220 appearances and won four Bundesliga titles. As he prepares to bow out, the winger's presence at the Club World Cup continues to divide opinion among fans and pundits alike.

Lothar Matthaus slams Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane Selection for FIFA Club World Cup