Bayern Munich are set for a major mid season lift with the gradual return of Jamal Musiala, with sporting director Christoph Freund confirming a January comeback is “more than realistic.” For a club that’s played down expectations of a busy transfer window, the reintegration of their German superstar will feel every bit like a new signing.
The 21 year old has resumed full training with Vincent Kompany’s squad after a long term layoff and is chomping at the bit to get back. “Jamal is training with the team again and will gradually get playing time,” Freund told TZ. “You can see how much he’s giving to get back on the pitch. He seems very positive; it’s simply a joy to see.” The director also revealed Musiala’s eagerness had him pushing for a December return, but a more cautious approach has won out.
While he’ll miss the next two fixtures, the current targeting points to a potential comeback in the Bundesliga clash against RB Leipzig on January 17th or the final Champions League group game versus Union Saint Gilloise on the 21st. These dates provides Kompany with the perfect low risk environment to ease him back, given Bayern’s healthy nine point lead at the Bundesliga summit and their secured place in the Champions League knockouts.
It comes at an ideal time. While the attacking trio of Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Luis Díaz have been sensational, and the likes of Serge Gnabry have chipped in, Musiala’s unique ability to unpick the deepest defences offers a different dimension. His return bolsters Bayern’s charge on all three fronts, with a DFB Pokal quarter final against Leipzig also looming next month.
Kompany will be tasked with managing his minutes carefully. “He just needs to get back to match fitness,” Freund stressed. But with the cushion they have, the manager can afford to be patient. For rivals hoping the Bavarian machine might stutter, the sight of a fresh Musiala returning to full tilt is a daunting prospect. The second half of the season just got a whole lot more interesting in Munich.
