Musiala collapses during match for second time in four-day period
August 18, 2026 21:57
Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala collapsed for the second time in four days during a pre-season friendly on Tuesday, coming down about six minutes after being introduced in a 4-2 win at Heidenheim. He looked disoriented on the pitch, received on-field treatment and was helped off.
The episode followed an earlier collapse in Saturday’s 3-1 friendly victory over RB Leipzig in Munich. Musiala has since issued a statement saying he has been diagnosed with short, treatable absence seizures linked to a neurological dysfunction and is undergoing medical care.
KEY CONTEXT
- Musiala publicly explained the diagnosis via an Instagram post, describing the episodes as temporary absence seizures and saying he’s receiving treatment and support from Bayern, family and friends.
- Bayern sporting director Max Eberl said the club was aware of the situation and that Musiala would address it himself after the match.
- The midfielder missed the first six months of last season after fracturing his ankle at the 2025 Club World Cup, but returned later in the campaign and started three of Germany’s four matches at the 2026 World Cup.
WHY IT MATTERS
Repeated collapses and a neurological diagnosis raise immediate health and availability questions for a player who has recently been an important presence for both club and country. The situation will require careful medical monitoring and clear communications from Musiala and Bayern to determine any impact on his playing schedule and preparation.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Further updates from Musiala and Bayern on his treatment plan and any restrictions or return-to-play timeline.
- Official medical assessments or statements that clarify the prognosis and whether additional specialists will be involved.
- Any decisions on Musiala’s participation in forthcoming club activities or fixtures once the club sets out next steps.
KEY FACTS
- Musiala collapsed in two friendlies within four days: against RB Leipzig (Saturday) and at Heidenheim (Tuesday).
- The Heidenheim incident occurred about six minutes after he entered the match; he appeared dazed and was helped off.
- He has been diagnosed with temporary, brief absence seizures attributed to a neurological dysfunction and says he is receiving treatment.
- Bayern sporting director Max Eberl confirmed the club knew about the issue and said Musiala would speak about it after the match.
- Musiala missed six months last season with an ankle fracture from the 2025 Club World Cup and later started three of Germany’s four games at the 2026 World Cup.