17 year old Jamal Musiala had a busy weekend, one which ended with him being very much in the spotlight. On Friday night he came on as a second half substitute for Bayern Munich and scored the final goal in their 8-0 humiliation of Schalke 04. In the process he became Bayern’s youngest ever goalscorer.
Less than 24 hours later he was in the starting line up for FC Bayern Munich II for their 3. Liga game against city rivals Türkgücü Munich, making their first ever appearance at this level, and played 66 minutes of an exciting game that finished 2-2. It may indeed be some kind of record to play games on consecutive days for different teams.
Having arrived at Bayern at the start of last season, Musiala was part of the FCB II team that had a superb end to the season, winning the 3. Liga title after the restart in June. As a consequence of his performances for the second team he was called into the first team squad at the end of last season and became Bayern’s youngest ever player in the penultimate game.
After his late cameo against Schalke his profile is now sky high. However, that he was playing 24 hours two divisions lower indicated that there will be no opportunity to allow himself to get carried away. It‘s a long way from the glamour of the Allianz Arena to the grit of the Stadion an der Grünewalder Straße, the concrete jungle where FCB II ply their trade in front of the lowest crowds in professional football (when full stadia were allowed).
Musiala has an interesting background, which is causing two rival Football Associations to fight over his allegiance. He was born in Stuttgart, with a German mother, but moved to England at the age of seven. He then went through the English football system until he was part of the academy at Chelsea. Unlike Callum Hudsoi Adoi, who elected to stay at Stamford
Bridge, Musiala felt his career would develop better at Bayern Munich, a view confirmed by coach Hansi Flick. His ongoing progress will be watched closely not only by leading clubs in England, but also by Gareth Southgate and Joachim Löw.
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