Bayern responds to strong criticism of Musiala: 'Praised in other countries instead'

Soccereco, Staff Writer

Published: 11:18, 13 Sep 2024

Director Christoph Freund downplays the criticism of Jamal Musiala. Dietmar Hamann was harsh on the attacking midfielder of Bayern Munich in the German press.

Bayern Munich remains firmly committed to Jamal Musiala, despite recent criticism from former German international Dietmar Hamann.

Hamann, now a prominent football pundit, expressed doubts about Musiala's playing style, labeling him as too individualistic and arguing that he doesn't significantly elevate his teammates’ performances. Hamann contrasted Musiala with Bayer Leverkusen's young star, Florian Wirtz, whom he views as a more team-oriented player. In his column for Sky, Hamann wrote, "Musiala is an individualist. If he gets the ball ten times, nine times his head goes down and he starts a dribble. Wirtz, on the other hand, is a player who puts his teammates in the spotlight. He really makes those around him better. From Bayern's perspective, I would swap Musiala for Wirtz tomorrow if I could."

Hamann's comments stirred a reaction in German football, especially given Musiala’s vital role in both Bayern Munich’s squad and the German national team. At Bayern, Musiala is regarded as a key asset with immense potential, despite Hamann's claims. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has been praised for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to decide matches with moments of individual brilliance. Bayern has shown confidence in him since his breakthrough into the first team, and his performances have attracted widespread attention across Europe.

In a press conference featuring Bayern’s coach Vincent Kompany and sporting director Christoph Freund, the club’s management responded to Hamann’s remarks. Freund, in particular, was quick to downplay the criticism. He praised Musiala, emphasizing his value to the team and his future potential. "We are incredibly happy to have such a player in the squad. Jamal is a player people come to the stadium to see. He can decide games and is also an absolute team player. He has the potential to become one of the best players in the world, and both Bayern and the German national team are fortunate to have him."

Freund also pointed out that in other countries, young players like Musiala would be celebrated, not criticized. He suggested that Musiala's talent and contributions might be underappreciated in Germany. "In other countries, such a young player would be praised. He will shape the next decade for Germany and hopefully also for Bayern," Freund concluded, reaffirming the club’s belief in Musiala as a cornerstone for both the team and the future of German football.

This exchange reflects the broader debate about player development and style in German football. While Musiala is viewed by some, like Hamann, as an individualist whose dribbling might hinder team cohesion, others, including Bayern’s leadership, see him as a generational talent with the capability to evolve into a world-class playmaker. The comparison to Wirtz, another of Germany's brightest prospects, highlights the differing visions of what a modern attacking midfielder should be someone who balances individual skill with team-oriented play.

Ultimately, Bayern's management has made it clear that they are not only committed to Musiala but also believe he can lead the club and the national team for years to come, despite external criticisms.