Jamal Musiala has revealed he has been diagnosed with “temporarily occurring, brief absence seizures” after the Bayern Munich midfielder collapsed on the pitch for the second time in four days, saying the episodes are caused by a neurological dysfunction but that he is receiving treatment and remains optimistic about continuing his football career.The 23-year-old came off the bench in Bayern’s final pre-season fixture against Heidenheim on Tuesday, entering in the 60th minute before appearing disoriented and collapsing roughly eight minutes later. Players from both teams formed a guard around Musiala as he received treatment, after which medics helped him from the pitch while he was able to walk under his own steam.The incident followed a similar episode during Saturday’s 3-1 friendly victory over RB Leipzig, when Musiala appeared disoriented and began to fall before new team-mate Ismael Saibari caught him and lowered him safely to the ground. Musiala was treated by medics before walking from the pitch and subsequently returning to team training.
Musiala explains what happened
Musiala addressed the situation in an Instagram statement after Tuesday’s match, thanking supporters for their concern before explaining the diagnosis and reassuring them about his condition.“First and foremost, I’m doing well!“I’m especially grateful for all your messages and support!“I understand that many of you are worried. Today, I’d like to put those worries to rest and explain a little more:“I have been diagnosed with temporarily occurring, brief absence seizures, which are treatable and are caused by a neurological dysfunction.“These can lead to the moments that have happened recently, such as against Leipzig and now in Heidenheim.“I know that these moments can seem scary at first glance — but for me, they are currently part of my everyday life. I am receiving the best possible medical treatment for this, and I am very optimistic. FC Bayern and my private circle are always by my side and supporting me on this journey.“Most importantly, there is no additional health risk beyond this. In close coordination and regular communication with the specialists, it was my personal wish to face this challenge and, with clearance from the neurological specialists, continue doing what helps me most with my recovery: simply living my everyday life and continuing to pursue my passion of playing football. I have taken responsibility for this decision. Overall, I have a very good feeling and am on a good path.“What helps me most on this journey is continuing to chase victories and titles with my team, with your incredible support.“I hope this helps you understand me and the situation better. At the same time, I ask for your understanding that I would like to keep this matter within my closest circle of confidants, the club, and the medical experts.“Thank you very much.”The statement came after Bayern sporting director Max Eberl indicated that Musiala would explain the situation himself. Speaking after Tuesday’s match, Eberl said: “We knew about it and we are aware of the situation.”He added: “Jamal will speak out. He’s in the dressing room, getting changed and taking a shower.”
Two collapses in four days
Musiala’s first collapse came during Saturday’s meeting with Leipzig, when the Allianz Arena fell quiet after he went down in the opposition half. The referee stopped play and medical staff attended to the Germany international before he eventually left the pitch on his own.Bayern captain Manuel Neuer said afterwards: “The most important thing is that (Musiala) is well. There’s nothing more to say about anything else.”Bayern’s sporting director had also sought to keep the focus on Musiala’s immediate wellbeing rather than speculate about the cause before the player’s own statement.Tuesday’s episode came in Bayern’s 4-2 victory over Heidenheim, their final friendly before competitive football resumes. Musiala had only recently returned to action after missing the first six months of last season with a broken ankle suffered at the 2025 Club World Cup.He returned during the second half of the campaign and started three of Germany’s four matches at the 2026 World Cup, but his latest episodes have now raised questions over his availability for the beginning of Bayern’s new season.
What happens next for Musiala?
Musiala’s statement makes clear that he intends to continue playing, subject to clearance from neurological specialists, while remaining under medical care and in regular communication with those specialists.Bayern begin their Bundesliga title defence on August 28 at home to VfB Stuttgart. Before that, they face Borussia Dortmund in Saturday’s Supercup, leaving Musiala’s involvement in both fixtures uncertain following the latest incident.His recent injury history has already limited his availability. The broken ankle sustained at the 2025 Club World Cup kept him out for several months and restricted him to 15 Bundesliga appearances last season.Musiala has now provided his own explanation for the two latest incidents, making clear that he is being treated, that he has received specialist clearance to continue his normal life and football activities, and that he remains determined to return to the pitch.
