Bayern Munich’s midfield prodigy Jamal Musiala suffered an untimely injury during the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal against Paris Saint-Germain, sending a wave of concern through the German camp. The 22-year-old was forced off the pitch after a hard collision with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma midway through the second half.
The incident occurred as Musiala charged into the box to meet a through ball, only to be met by Donnarumma in a full-blooded challenge. Though both players initially attempted to continue, Musiala was clearly in discomfort and was eventually substituted, walking off with the assistance of Bayern’s medical staff.
Although the severity of the injury has not yet been formally confirmed, preliminary reports point to a knee or lower leg problem, which could jeopardise his availability for the remainder of the tournament and the beginning of Bayern’s domestic season. In a cautiously optimistic statement, coach Thomas Tuchel said, “We’ll have to wait for scans, but we’re all hoping it’s nothing serious.”
Musiala’s absence was noticeable as PSG advanced to the semifinals after defeating Bayern to exit the competition. A prolonged absence would be a serious setback for the creative and dribbling German international, who has been an important member of both club and country.
