Bayern Munich: Germany should use Jamal Musiala more in knockout rounds

Germany had a mixed bunch of results in the group stages, but they managed to get the job done. The final group game against Hungary was tricky as they were trailing twice in the game. Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka stole the limelight by scoring the equaliser, but his clubmate Jamal Musiala also deserves plaudits for a brilliant cameo.

Musiala struggled with a couple of injuries at the start of the tournament. The youngster couldn’t get game time against France and Portugal but made a big impact in the game against Hungary. Ahead of the knockout game against England, Joachim Low should not be afraid to give Musiala more playing time on the pitch.

Musiala is calm and composed in pressure situations

Even though Musiala turned 18 earlier this year, he has shown very little sign of inexperience at the top level throughout his breakthrough campaign in the Bundesliga. Hansi Flick managed to use him perfectly during the season to give him the right exposure to pressure situations and get the best out of him.

While coming on from the bench, Musiala always had a positive impact for Die Roten. He came on against RB Leipzig earlier in the season and scored a brilliant equaliser. The youngster can provide a similar edge to Germany when they need a spark in the final third.

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Musiala’s composure in the final third is crucial in big games

Apart from him doing well in pressure situations, Musiala also brings a sense of calmness in the final third. Most of the time, he makes the right decision instead of going for the glory. Moreover, his immaculate control in tight spaces helps in stretching tight defenses, which is a really handy trait to have in knockout stages.

Germany has been dominating possession in all three group games. Portugal and France played on the break against them, so England is also likely to go down the same route. In such a situation, Musiala can be backed to break down a deep block due to his quick feet and good decision-making.

Playing at Euro 2020 for Germany in itself is an amazing achievement feat for Germany. Low is justified to pick experienced players ahead of him, but the German manager should make sure that Musiala is not underused since he can be the gamechanger from the bench.

Meanwhile, Thomas Muller, Joshua Kimmich, Manuel Neuer, and Goretzka are definitely starting against England. Germany goes into the game against England in mixed form. Low will be hoping the team that turned up for the game against Portugal is the one turning up at Wembley on Tuesday.