Lothar Matthaus: Jamal Musiala reminds me of Lionel Messi
Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthaus has lavished possibly the highest praise on teenage tyro Jamal Musiala by likening him to Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi.
The 15-capped Germany international has risen to meteoric prominence in Bavaria ever since trading Chelsea for Bayern Munich in 2020, with his level of output only appearing to accelerate.
Already this season the 19-year-old has scored thrice and provided an assist in three Bundesliga games as Julian Nagelsmann’s side sit habitually atop the table with a positive 14 goal difference, looking good value in these early stages of the campaign to retain their title.
Musiala will no doubt be itching to push on in 2022/23 and truly consolidate his status as one of the continent’s most prolific playmakers, an assessment that one-time Ballon d’Or winner Matthaus no doubt thinks is achievable, particularly if his analysis of the attacking midfielder is anything to go by.
Matthaus said: “I wish him the world footballer’s title, but he is still in a certain development. He reminds me of Lionel Messi with his joy, his movements, his dribbling. I trust him if the development.
“Keep going like this and to win big things as part of a successful team. He has the potential to be able to count on a Ballon d’Or and the world football title. Musiala is grounded. He always wants to improve. This ambition drives him. If he keeps that up, he can succeed Robert Lewandowski.”
Musiala’s early-season form will be hugely encouraging for Germany manager Hansi Flick, who will already be starting to think about the squad he will be taking to Qatar for this year’s winter World Cup, which starts at the end of November.
Despite still being in his teenage years, there is high hope from the nation that Musiala can be the centre-piece of their attacking line this forthcoming tournament, and he has certainly not looked fazed in the previous 15 times he’s donned the Mannschaft jersey.
