Bayern Munich are set to return from the winter break later this week. After a successful Hinrunde, the Bavarian club looks to maintain momentum when the Bundesliga resumes on January 11. Vincent Kompany will receive a major boost as Jamal Musiala eyes a return at the start of Ruckrunde.
The German attacking midfielder is doing everything possible to be fit before the Bundesliga resumes against Wolfsburg. According to Kicker, Musiala will report to Sabner Strasse on January 2 for extra training. The other first team players will report for physical tests on January 3.
Musiala needs extra training to start working with the first team a couple of days later. The 22-year-old did parts of first team training before the winter break, but still has work to do when it comes to being part of the matchday squad. Bayern are in no rush with his return as they want to avoid a relapse of injury.
The German attacking midfielder has been on the sidelines since June after suffering a serious injury during the clash against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup. It was a massive blow for Die Roten as they were already losing several attacking players in the summer. They had also missed out on their top target- Florian Wirtz. He ended up joining Liverpool instead of Bayern.
Bayern have done well in the absence of Musiala
Along with Michael Olise, Musiala has been the chief creator in the final third during the last 18 months. Bayern consider Musiala to be part of their spine for the next decade, which was underlined in their intensive efforts on concluding contract talks with him at the start of 2024.
In the absence of Musiala during Hinrunde, Vincent Kompany has managed to get the best out of other forwards behind Harry Kane. Olise has continued his good form from last season, while Luis Diaz has hit the ground running after arriving from Liverpool in the summer. Serge Gnabry has also looked back to his best under Kompany, as he has largely played in the number ten position, where Musiala generally operates for Die Roten. Lennart Karl has been a revelation for Bayern as the 17-year-old has chipped in with crucial goals and assists during Hinrunde.
Bayern have been one of the best attacking teams in Europe this season, scoring goals at a healthy rate and causing problems to other European rivals in the Champions League.
Musiala’s return will further bolster Bayern’s attack and make them strong contenders for every trophy they are competing for this season.