BERLIN, Feb 11, (V7N) – Bayern Munich will travel to Glasgow for their Champions League playoff first leg against Celtic on Wednesday, with midfielder Jamal Musiala proving to be a model of consistency in their squad.
Once seen as a rising talent with exceptional skills, Musiala has evolved into one of Bayern's most reliable attacking players, alongside Harry Kane. At just 21 years old, he has become a key part of Vincent Kompany’s side, delivering game-changing performances week after week.
As hosts of this year’s Champions League final, Bayern are aiming to become the first club since Inter Milan in 1965 to lift the European Cup in their home stadium. To achieve that goal, Musiala’s impact will be crucial, especially in breaking down a determined Celtic side.
Musiala has scored 15 goals in 29 games across all competitions this season, just one short of his career-best tally from 2022-23. His ability to combine creativity with clinical finishing has made him indispensable, particularly as several of Bayern’s experienced forwards struggle for form.
While Kane has netted 28 goals in 28 games, the likes of Leroy Sane, Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, and Thomas Müller have failed to hit double digits. Musiala, however, has stepped up in crucial moments, scoring match-winning goals against Benfica in Europe and St. Pauli in the Bundesliga.
His ability to rise to big occasions has been evident all season. In November, he rescued a draw in Dortmund with a late equalizer and then scored twice off the bench against Heidenheim a week later. Remarkably, he has done all this amid ongoing contract negotiations, showing his focus under pressure.
Despite his growing reputation, Musiala remains unfazed by expectations. Serge Gnabry, speaking to the Bundesliga website, described him as someone who "likes to be in a good mood, to enjoy things, and to laugh." He also revealed that Musiala often watches his own highlights, further reflecting his confidence and self-awareness.
Bayern’s biggest challenge, however, will be their poor away form in Europe. They have suffered heavy losses to Barcelona, Aston Villa, and Feyenoord, winning just once on the road—against Shakhtar Donetsk in Germany. Celtic Park, where the hosts have not lost since December 2023, will be an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors.
Coach Vincent Kompany, who played at Celtic Park at 17 years old for Anderlecht, called it "one of the loudest away games" of his career. Bayern sporting director Max Eberl acknowledged the challenge, saying, "Celtic is a force at home... we have great respect for their atmosphere. We know we need to improve our away form."
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