Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has backed Thomas Muller to remain an important member of the Bundesliga champions' squad.
Muller scored only five goals last season, enduring a 999-minute league goal drought, and faces increased competition following the signing of James Rodriguez.
But Hoeness said he "can't understand the discussions about Thomas Muller."
Speaking during Bayern's tour of China, he added: "I have the feeling that Thomas is in really good shape.
"And if Thomas plays like he did versus Gladbach or also Arsenal for large parts, then in my opinion he need not worry about a place in the starting XI."
Former Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer called Muller, the only Bavarian in the squad, "the soul and the future of Bayern" in his role as a pundit on Eurosport, adding that "the club needs to understand that."
But Hoeness said: "I'd strongly urge Matthias to talk as little as possible about FC Bayern in his new job.
"I am convinced that he has nothing against Bayern, but that he will get a few in-your-face Bayern questions it'll be hard to not answer for the money he earns now."
Midfielder Thiago Alcantara, meanwhile, has left Bayern's training camp after suffering bruising to his left calf, the club announced on their official website.
"In discussion with the player and our medical team, we have decided to continue with an individual training programme for Thiago," head coach Carlo Ancelotti said.
The Spain international is expected to rejoin normal training once Bayern return from their tour next week.