Jamal Musiala played a strong game in the national team’s successful start to the World Cup. His successful performance and goal meant a lot to the FC Bayern star himself.
In an interview with “Bild”, the youngster raves about the 7-1 win over Curacao and looks back emotionally on his goal to make it 4-1. “The goal was definitely really good. I think I’ve never been as happy after my injury as I was at that moment,” Musiala gives an insight into his inner life.
“That was definitely one of my best games since I’ve been back. A lot of things worked out, I felt free and good on the pitch. I’ll take that feeling with me.”
Jamal Musiala was out for around six months after breaking his leg at the Club World Cup. He then fought his way back to his old fitness for months, constantly dealing with setbacks. He is now in top shape again for the World Cup.
“I know that’s part of being a footballer. The way back involved a lot of work and patience: it was strenuous at times, but I’m convinced that even if it’s not always easy, you have to look at the positive. Even if it’s difficult at times,” explained Musiala.
“I’ve definitely learned the most this year. Not just about football, I’ve also grown as a person. I now know that to come back from a serious injury like the one I experienced, you need patience. The step you took afterwards is even bigger. That’s how I see it,” says the offensive man, drawing new strength from his time of suffering.
Musiala responds to Müller criticism
It was not a given that Musiala was in the starting eleven at the start of the World Cup. Before the game, several TV experts discussed how much playing time Musiala should get. The youngster himself didn’t care much:
“You can believe me: I don’t see or read anything that experts say. I can imagine what is being said so well, I’ve been in the football business for a while now. But I consciously prefer to stay away from these things that are said or written about me. I just focus on myself. The most important thing for me is that my head is always clear. Only then can I feel fresh on the pitch,” assured Musiala.
One of the experts who would have preferred to see Musiala on the bench initially was ex-teammate Thomas Müller. The 2014 world champion had also contacted Musiala personally in advance.
“Thomas wrote me a message before the Curaçao game and wished me good luck. He also sometimes gives me tips, but we only do that when we see each other in person.”