Matthäus Praises Bayern's Unity Amid Musiala's Health Issues

Jamal Musiala’s last few months at Bayern Munich have played out far from the spotlight. The story is only now coming into focus.

The Germany international twice collapsed on the pitch during pre-season friendlies against RB Leipzig and 1. FC Heidenheim, forced off on both occasions. Later, Musiala revealed he had been dealing with “absences”, a neurological dysfunction. He has not played for Bayern since.

Bayern then confirmed they had been aware of the illness for a considerable period. The club said the on-pitch collapses were linked to a change in his medication rather than a new, acute problem.

Matthäus' Perspective

For Lothar Matthäus, that was the cue to highlight something bigger than tactics or transfers.

“The very biggest thing I have experienced at Bayern Munich was the name Jamal Musiala,” the former Germany captain said on Sky90. He stressed how long the issue had been known internally: “People at the club have known for six, seven, eight months. But it is not only the president and the doctor who know. The whole team know. And nothing has come out. That shows the togetherness. Not only on the pitch, but off it as well.”

The leak-free handling of such a sensitive topic drew rare, unqualified praise from a man who is not shy about criticising his former club.

Matthäus lauded Bayern’s approach, calling it an example of how an elite dressing room can close ranks when it truly matters. Musiala is now back in training with the squad, working under new coach Vincent Kompany, but his competitive return remains uncertain. It is still unclear whether Kompany will name him in the squad for Wednesday’s cup tie away to VfL Osnabrück.

“Huge respect for dealing with such a topic so properly and in such a united way. All I can say is: chapeau to Bayern Munich,” Matthäus said.

Musiala’s struggle with continuity predates this latest setback. Last season he missed long stretches with a fibula fracture, only returning in January and needing time to find rhythm and sharpness again. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann still took him to the World Cup this summer, banking on his talent and potential impact, but like many of his national team-mates, Musiala failed to leave a lasting mark on the tournament.

Now he stands at another crossroads: a gifted playmaker fighting for full health, match fitness and a fresh start, at a club that has quietly closed ranks around him.