Bayern Munich: Jamal Musiala shines for Germany against Israel
The international break is turning out to be a productive one for Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala. The teenager has been lately praised for his versatility at the club level, so it was always going to be interesting to see how he translates those qualities to the German national team.
Hansi Flick had glowing words to say about Musiala this week. The German coach admitted that Musiala has the qualities to do well in the midfield. However, his immediate future with Germany is likely to be higher up the pitch.
Flick decided to go with Musiala in the number ten role against Israel on Saturday. The youngster repaid the faith shown by Flick by delivering a very tidy performance. Musiala also showed a teaser of his versatility as he was allowed to drop in a deeper position when Thomas Muller came on at halftime.
Musiala was very tidy and secure with the ball. He boasted a passing success rate of 88% during his stay on the pitch. The youngster knows how to keep things ticking in the center of the park when he drops deeper. Musiala was dispossessed only once during the game against Israel. He is much more ambitious with the ball when deployed in the number ten role.
The 19-year-old midfielder can go past players with ease. His close control in tight spaces makes him a vital asset for the team. In the game against Israel, Musiala managed to complete five of seven dribbles attempted. While he was very tidy on the ball, Musiala would like to get better in terms of creating chances. He managed to create only one chance against Israel.
From a defensive point of view, Musiala was very proactive for Germany. He made eight recoveries in the game and won the majority of individual duels. Even though he has not completely grown physically, Musiala manages to heavily contribute defensively.
The only thing missing for Musiala against Israel was a goal or assist. It was a very encouraging display that will give Flick a good selection headache. Musiala may not start games for Germany when all senior players are available, but he is doing more than enough to be part of the squad for the World Cup. (Stats courtesy: Fotmob)
Next. Bayern in advanced talks to sign Mazraoui. dark
Want your voice heard? Join the Bayern Strikes team!
Meanwhile, Thomas Muller and Leroy Sane were other Bayern players to feature for Germany against Israel. Muller replaced Ilkay Gundogan at half-time, while Sane came on for Timo Werner in the 71st minute. The veteran forward ended up missing a penalty at the end of the game. Meanwhile, Sane had a few tidy touches but not enough time to make an impact.