Jamal Musiala's challenging journey back to peak form hit another significant roadblock as Bayern Munich's Champions League campaign ended in the semi-finals at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, once considered one of Europe's most exciting young talents, was unable to replicate his inspirational best across the two-legged tie, which Bayern lost on aggregate.
The shadow of PSG has loomed large over Musiala's recent career. His troubles with the Parisian club began during the Club World Cup last July, where he suffered a devastating injury: a fractured fibula accompanied by a dislocation of his left ankle. This serious setback kept him sidelined for months, disrupting what had been a meteoric rise.
Since making his gradual return to competition in January, initially as a substitute before reclaiming a starting role, Musiala has visibly struggled to rediscover his rhythm, timing, and creative spark. While his statistics—five goals and six assists across all competitions—appear respectable on the surface, they mask a deeper issue. In a Bayern Munich side that typically dominates possession and territory, his influence on matches has waned considerably.
In the decisive second leg, manager Vincent Kompany once again deployed Musiala in his preferred role, playing in support of central striker Harry Kane. However, the German international (40 caps, 8 goals) found himself overwhelmed in physical duels, appearing too slight in challenges and too predictable in his decision-making. This mirrored his performance in the first leg, where he was overshadowed by the dynamic contributions of teammates Michael Olise and Luis Diaz.
The second leg offered fleeting glimpses of his former self. Just before halftime, Musiala created three promising situations. His first effort was well saved by PSG goalkeeper Safonov in the 44th minute, while two subsequent attempts failed to find the target. Yet these moments were exceptions in an otherwise subdued display. While he was not solely responsible for Bayern's attacking shortcomings on a night when Olise and Diaz also failed to sparkle, Musiala could not seize the initiative and dictate play as he has so often done in the past.
His physical fragility has been a recurring concern since his return. In March, ankle problems resurfaced, preventing him from making a long-awaited return to the German national team. Musiala has not featured for the Nationalmannschaft in over a year, a situation that has become a major talking point in German football circles.
The debate intensified last month when former Bayern Munich goalkeeper, captain, and president Oliver Kahn offered a blunt assessment on Sky Sports. "He should renounce participation in the World Cup," Kahn stated, referencing the tournament scheduled for June 11 to July 19. "If I sense that something is not right in my game, then I must work on myself to be ready again."
Although Kahn later softened his stance, clarifying that if the young attacker returned to 100 percent fitness he should obviously be included, his initial comments have fueled ongoing discussion in Germany. The national team squad list is expected to be announced in approximately two weeks, leaving Musiala in a precarious position as he seeks to prove his readiness for football's biggest stage.
For Bayern Munich, the elimination represents a missed opportunity to reach the Champions League final, and Musiala's diminished contributions highlight a broader challenge. The club must now assess how to manage the reintegration of a player whose immense talent remains undeniable, but whose physical and match readiness is clearly still compromised following a career-threatening injury.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.