2 hours ago
It is easy to forget how close the fight between England and Germany was for Jamal Musiala, with the talented Bayern Munich breakout star eventually deciding on Germany. He took his role of exciting young talent into the 2021 European Championship and 2022 World Cup, but that role has evolved by 2026. Musiala now has the #10 for Germany and nears his mid-20s. Despite coming off of a big injury, he is one of the faces of the Germany team.
This conflict was brought up to Musiala by Sport Bild (as captured by iMiaSanMia), who queried Musiala on shedding his old one as exciting dribbler for his new role.
"Of course I still enjoy dribbling, and I'm getting a better feeling for it all the time. But you can't forget that coming back from an injury takes time," Musiala cautioned. "The more minutes and matches I play, the better I feel. Getting on the ball again brings me joy. But it's also true that my responsibilities for the team have increased. I take more responsibility for our attacking play and contribute more defensively as well. Winning the ball back can be fun as well."
Moving into the new era with Jürgen Klopp now at the helm will require Musiala to evolve further. Can he become the difference maker for the country that so many had been hoping for five years ago?
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#musiala #getting #injury #better
This conflict was brought up to Musiala by Sport Bild (as captured by iMiaSanMia), who queried Musiala on shedding his old one as exciting dribbler for his new role.
"Of course I still enjoy dribbling, and I'm getting a better feeling for it all the time. But you can't forget that coming back from an injury takes time," Musiala cautioned. "The more minutes and matches I play, the better I feel. Getting on the ball again brings me joy. But it's also true that my responsibilities for the team have increased. I take more responsibility for our attacking play and contribute more defensively as well. Winning the ball back can be fun as well."
Moving into the new era with Jürgen Klopp now at the helm will require Musiala to evolve further. Can he become the difference maker for the country that so many had been hoping for five years ago?
Sign up for a user account and get:
#musiala #getting #injury #better
7 days ago
Bayern Munich set off for their pre-season tour of Asia on Saturday without several high-profile first-team players.
As previously agreed, World Cup semi-finalists Harry Kane, Dayot Upamecano and Michael Olise didn't travel, as they are still on vacation.
Alphonso Davies, Jamal Musiala, new signing Ismael Saibari, Serge Gnabry and Lennart Karl were also absent, having remained in Munich to continue their respective recovery programmes.
Meanwhile, the available German World Cup participants, including captain Manuel Neuer and Joshua Kimmich, were part of the travelling squad.
Bayern have also taken several highly-rated academy prospects, including 16-year-old striker Bastian ***** omo, 16-year-old centre-back Filip Pavic, 19-year-old midfielder Guido Della Rovere, 17-year-old winger Maycon Cardozo and 19-year-old midfielder Felipe Chavez.
#year #bayern #munich #harry
As previously agreed, World Cup semi-finalists Harry Kane, Dayot Upamecano and Michael Olise didn't travel, as they are still on vacation.
Alphonso Davies, Jamal Musiala, new signing Ismael Saibari, Serge Gnabry and Lennart Karl were also absent, having remained in Munich to continue their respective recovery programmes.
Meanwhile, the available German World Cup participants, including captain Manuel Neuer and Joshua Kimmich, were part of the travelling squad.
Bayern have also taken several highly-rated academy prospects, including 16-year-old striker Bastian ***** omo, 16-year-old centre-back Filip Pavic, 19-year-old midfielder Guido Della Rovere, 17-year-old winger Maycon Cardozo and 19-year-old midfielder Felipe Chavez.
#year #bayern #munich #harry
11 days ago
Bayern Munich and Harry Kane could be ready to kickstart contract discussions in just a matter of a few days — something that the majority of fans would welcome:
Bayern will open formal contract negotiations with Harry Kane at the beginning of August once he returns from vacation. The Englishman is currently Bayern's highest earner alongside Jamal Musiala with around €25m gross per year. Bayern typically aim to cut the salary of players over 30 year old, but with Kane a pay cut will certainly not be a topic. Kane received inquiries from other clubs, but for him it was always clear that Bayern is the perfect club for his career plans
The decisive question for the negotiations will be the new contract duration. Bayern will offer Kane a contract until at least 2029. Meanwhile, the striker is already aiming for the 2030 World Cup and wants to continue playing at the highest level until then. So the situation would be as follows: either a longer contract (until 2030) with a lower salary, or a shorter deal (2029) with a higher salary.
Surely, Bayern Munich will not want to create any ill-will with Kane, who will ***** uredly want a massive number and as long a deal as he can squeeze out of the Bavarians. The talks could be a tricky dance, but it seems very clear that both sides want this deal pretty quickly.
After some speculation that he could leave the club, Vinícius Júnior might be about to get a massive deal from Real Madrid:
#kane #salary #negotiations
Bayern will open formal contract negotiations with Harry Kane at the beginning of August once he returns from vacation. The Englishman is currently Bayern's highest earner alongside Jamal Musiala with around €25m gross per year. Bayern typically aim to cut the salary of players over 30 year old, but with Kane a pay cut will certainly not be a topic. Kane received inquiries from other clubs, but for him it was always clear that Bayern is the perfect club for his career plans
The decisive question for the negotiations will be the new contract duration. Bayern will offer Kane a contract until at least 2029. Meanwhile, the striker is already aiming for the 2030 World Cup and wants to continue playing at the highest level until then. So the situation would be as follows: either a longer contract (until 2030) with a lower salary, or a shorter deal (2029) with a higher salary.
Surely, Bayern Munich will not want to create any ill-will with Kane, who will ***** uredly want a massive number and as long a deal as he can squeeze out of the Bavarians. The talks could be a tricky dance, but it seems very clear that both sides want this deal pretty quickly.
After some speculation that he could leave the club, Vinícius Júnior might be about to get a massive deal from Real Madrid:
#kane #salary #negotiations
11 days ago
After Bayern Munich ran roughshod over the Bundesliga last season, is there any prospect of a tighter race this year? Former Germany men's national team star İlkay Gündoğan does not think so.
"Bayern will have no trouble and will steamroll the Bundesliga again this season," Gündoğan has predicted (via Sky Germany, as captured by iMiaSanMia). "FC Bayern are the ultimate team in Germany. To be honest, with this combination of coach, players, and club officials, I simply don't see how things can go completely wrong at Bayern in a way that, for example, Borussia Dortmund could capitalize on. I actually see Bayern as a very, very serious contender to win the Champions League as well."
On paper, Gündoğan is not exactly going out on a limb. Vincent Kompany's record-setting attack from a season ago basically returns intact; if anything, it should be bolstered by the addition of Ismael Saibari, a World Cup breakout with Morocco, and the continued progress made by Jamal Musiala since his devastating injury a year ago.
Could this be the year the Bavarians lift the UCL trophy once again?
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#germany #team #munich #dortmund
"Bayern will have no trouble and will steamroll the Bundesliga again this season," Gündoğan has predicted (via Sky Germany, as captured by iMiaSanMia). "FC Bayern are the ultimate team in Germany. To be honest, with this combination of coach, players, and club officials, I simply don't see how things can go completely wrong at Bayern in a way that, for example, Borussia Dortmund could capitalize on. I actually see Bayern as a very, very serious contender to win the Champions League as well."
On paper, Gündoğan is not exactly going out on a limb. Vincent Kompany's record-setting attack from a season ago basically returns intact; if anything, it should be bolstered by the addition of Ismael Saibari, a World Cup breakout with Morocco, and the continued progress made by Jamal Musiala since his devastating injury a year ago.
Could this be the year the Bavarians lift the UCL trophy once again?
Sign up for a user account and get:
#germany #team #munich #dortmund
1 month ago
After Germany's failure at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, just about every former player and pundit made a statement on the tournament. While there was a variety of responses, mostly negative, one stood out among the rest. That of course, was Mats Hummels', who held nothing back in a very candit response calling for serious change from the DFB.
"This is not a coincidence. On the side of the people in charge, this really does call for consequences. I can't put it any other way. We've now had the Euros at home, the Nations League at home, and this World Cup here. Looking back, I still think the performances at the Euros are being talked up too much from a sporting perspective. The other two tournaments were both disappointing. That's why this has to be addressed. Both by the national team coach himself and by the federation. At the very least, there have to be discussions about it – there is no other way. Football is a results-oriented sport. As for the players, I can certainly imagine that some will choose to retire from international football on their own. And then perhaps decisions also need to be made regarding players who may only be in their early 30s, but who have already missed the opportunity at four, five, or six tournaments to deliver a strong campaign or achieve good results for Germany," Hummels said on MagentaTV as captured by iMiaSanMia.
Big words from the former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich defender. While he wasn't shy with what he said, he was absolutely correct. After so many failures now, something big has to change within the DFB as well as the players.
You don't have to read hard between the lines to infer that players such as Leroy Sané, Leon Goretzka, and others are being recommended to retire from the national team at this point. Despite their quality, they simply have not delivered enough after several tournaments to still be trusted at this point.
It is time to give the keys to Lennart Karl, Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Jonas Urbig and the rest of the young talent for a true rebirth.
"This is not a coincidence. On the side of the people in charge, this really does call for consequences. I can't put it any other way. We've now had the Euros at home, the Nations League at home, and this World Cup here. Looking back, I still think the performances at the Euros are being talked up too much from a sporting perspective. The other two tournaments were both disappointing. That's why this has to be addressed. Both by the national team coach himself and by the federation. At the very least, there have to be discussions about it – there is no other way. Football is a results-oriented sport. As for the players, I can certainly imagine that some will choose to retire from international football on their own. And then perhaps decisions also need to be made regarding players who may only be in their early 30s, but who have already missed the opportunity at four, five, or six tournaments to deliver a strong campaign or achieve good results for Germany," Hummels said on MagentaTV as captured by iMiaSanMia.
Big words from the former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich defender. While he wasn't shy with what he said, he was absolutely correct. After so many failures now, something big has to change within the DFB as well as the players.
You don't have to read hard between the lines to infer that players such as Leroy Sané, Leon Goretzka, and others are being recommended to retire from the national team at this point. Despite their quality, they simply have not delivered enough after several tournaments to still be trusted at this point.
It is time to give the keys to Lennart Karl, Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Jonas Urbig and the rest of the young talent for a true rebirth.
1 month ago
Far below Philadelphia’s City Hall, boarding the subways on their return from the Lincoln Financial Field, were fans with names on their shirts. Those of Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala and Joshua Kimmich, the players they hoped to see on 4 July. They had bought their tickets in the hope of a different match. France did not get the game they wanted, either, and not merely because a World Cup win over Germany would have been something to savour.
One with Paraguay was more one to endure than enjoy. There were parties elsewhere in Philadelphia, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This was something different: Nigglefest 2026. It was an exhibition of off-the-ball fouls, collapsing to the turf and scuffing up the penalty spot. It was designed to delay, to provoke.
It was, according to interpretation, either disgraceful, mildly irritating or a justified way of trying to stop a superior opponent. If Sweden could be accused of being too accommodating when they lost to France, the same charge could not be levelled at Paraguay. Every other opponent had conceded at least three times to the tournament favourites. Paraguay only let in one goal, and a penalty at that. But was that due to their underhand tactics or the genuinely excellent defending that surrounded it, but which will garner less attention?
Gustavo Alfaro, the Paraguay coach, said his side “fought like lions”. Some of the tactics were scarcely those **** ociated with the king of the jungle. Officially, though, they fought clean. That Paraguay only committed 13 fouls was laughable; for the first time in 28 years, they completed a World Cup game without getting as much as a booking, which could suggest their behaviour was immaculate. Instead, it said rather more about the frankly bizarre performance of Ilgiz Tantashev, the Uzbek referee, who seemed incapable of recognising Paraguayan wrongdoing.
That said, it was scarcely the battle of Philadelphia and more an extended exercise in s**thousery. There was a pettiness to much of it, a streetwise nature to parts of it. There were offences that stopped short of being deemed violent conduct. There were others designed to induce a violent reaction from France.
One with Paraguay was more one to endure than enjoy. There were parties elsewhere in Philadelphia, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This was something different: Nigglefest 2026. It was an exhibition of off-the-ball fouls, collapsing to the turf and scuffing up the penalty spot. It was designed to delay, to provoke.
It was, according to interpretation, either disgraceful, mildly irritating or a justified way of trying to stop a superior opponent. If Sweden could be accused of being too accommodating when they lost to France, the same charge could not be levelled at Paraguay. Every other opponent had conceded at least three times to the tournament favourites. Paraguay only let in one goal, and a penalty at that. But was that due to their underhand tactics or the genuinely excellent defending that surrounded it, but which will garner less attention?
Gustavo Alfaro, the Paraguay coach, said his side “fought like lions”. Some of the tactics were scarcely those **** ociated with the king of the jungle. Officially, though, they fought clean. That Paraguay only committed 13 fouls was laughable; for the first time in 28 years, they completed a World Cup game without getting as much as a booking, which could suggest their behaviour was immaculate. Instead, it said rather more about the frankly bizarre performance of Ilgiz Tantashev, the Uzbek referee, who seemed incapable of recognising Paraguayan wrongdoing.
That said, it was scarcely the battle of Philadelphia and more an extended exercise in s**thousery. There was a pettiness to much of it, a streetwise nature to parts of it. There were offences that stopped short of being deemed violent conduct. There were others designed to induce a violent reaction from France.
1 month ago
Calls are growing for a decision on the future of Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, who touched down in Munich on Wednesday following his team's early World Cup exit.
Nagelsmann has come under fire after four-time champions Germany were ousted 4-3 on penalties by Paraguay in the round of 32 on Monday, a result only marginally better than group stage exits in 2018 and 2022.
The performance has sparked a heated debate over the future of Nagelsmann, who has a contract until 2028 and said post-match he would not step down and wanted to continue if allowed to.
Nagelsmann did not speak to waiting reporters when leaving Munich Airport through a rear exit in pouring rain.
Bayern stars Aleksandar Pavlovic and Jamal Musiala, who had travelled on the same plane, also left the terminal without comment.
Nagelsmann has come under fire after four-time champions Germany were ousted 4-3 on penalties by Paraguay in the round of 32 on Monday, a result only marginally better than group stage exits in 2018 and 2022.
The performance has sparked a heated debate over the future of Nagelsmann, who has a contract until 2028 and said post-match he would not step down and wanted to continue if allowed to.
Nagelsmann did not speak to waiting reporters when leaving Munich Airport through a rear exit in pouring rain.
Bayern stars Aleksandar Pavlovic and Jamal Musiala, who had travelled on the same plane, also left the terminal without comment.
1 month ago
Paraguay shocked four-time world champions Germany by knocking them out of the last 32 through a penalty shootout. The South Americans had less of the ball but managed to make their chances count and continuously disturbed Julian Nagelsmann’s team. Then they stepped up when it mattered during the penalty shootouts to book their place in the last 16, where they will face either France or Sweden.
Germany opted to play Deniz Undav instead of Jamal Musiala for this game. However, the attacking front failed to combine and create clear-cut chances.
Paraguay started brightly as they won a corner kick in the second minute, but Junior Alonso’s attempt was saved by Manuel Neuer.
In the first half, Germany enjoyed much of the possession but failed to make it count. And in the 42nd minute, it was Julio Enciso who gave Paraguay the lead through a header as he found himself unmarked in the box.
At half-time, Nagelsmann chose to bring on Leon Goretzka for Felix Nmecha, who had impressed in previous games but failed to find his feet in this one.
Germany opted to play Deniz Undav instead of Jamal Musiala for this game. However, the attacking front failed to combine and create clear-cut chances.
Paraguay started brightly as they won a corner kick in the second minute, but Junior Alonso’s attempt was saved by Manuel Neuer.
In the first half, Germany enjoyed much of the possession but failed to make it count. And in the 42nd minute, it was Julio Enciso who gave Paraguay the lead through a header as he found himself unmarked in the box.
At half-time, Nagelsmann chose to bring on Leon Goretzka for Felix Nmecha, who had impressed in previous games but failed to find his feet in this one.
1 month ago
Germany went into the match as massive favorites over a relatively small football nation of Paraguay. Despite Germany’s historic success and their first trip to the knockout stage since 2014, Die Mannschaft would fall short once again in ugly fashion in a penalty shootout to the South American side.
An absolute joke off a foul overuled a goal for Germany that would have surely sealed the deal for Germany to book their Round of 16 ticket. Not to mention the VAR overturn, there was a clear missed handball as well as Manuel Neuer’s brilliant through ball to Kai Havertz that was blown down for seemingly no reason.
In a match where almost all fans were calling for Kimmich to be moved into midfield, the Bayern Munich veteran finally put in a good performance at right-back. While Malick Thiaw would have been a great option to start in this position, Kimmich was highly effective in this role.
While Jamal Musiala in 2026 is a far cry from the version we saw in 2022 or 2024 tournaments, he provided some much needed energy in an attack that was simply ineffective. Despite all the possession, no one was able to create, although Musiala did inject some life when he came on the pitch.
While Kai Havertz will receive the honors today, he did not do much outside of his goal which provided Germany with a lifeline before heading to added time. Considering the amount of minutes the **** nal forward played in this game, a lot more would be expected from the Champions League finalist.
An absolute joke off a foul overuled a goal for Germany that would have surely sealed the deal for Germany to book their Round of 16 ticket. Not to mention the VAR overturn, there was a clear missed handball as well as Manuel Neuer’s brilliant through ball to Kai Havertz that was blown down for seemingly no reason.
In a match where almost all fans were calling for Kimmich to be moved into midfield, the Bayern Munich veteran finally put in a good performance at right-back. While Malick Thiaw would have been a great option to start in this position, Kimmich was highly effective in this role.
While Jamal Musiala in 2026 is a far cry from the version we saw in 2022 or 2024 tournaments, he provided some much needed energy in an attack that was simply ineffective. Despite all the possession, no one was able to create, although Musiala did inject some life when he came on the pitch.
While Kai Havertz will receive the honors today, he did not do much outside of his goal which provided Germany with a lifeline before heading to added time. Considering the amount of minutes the **** nal forward played in this game, a lot more would be expected from the Champions League finalist.
1 month ago
Where to watch Germany vs. Paraguay live stream, TV channel, start time for World Cup Round of 32 match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Germany and Paraguay meet in the Round of 32, pitting one of the world's most storied programs against a South American side that barely snuck into the knockout round.
The Germans won Group E despite living dangerously throughout: they surrendered an early goal to Curaçao before winning 7-1, conceded first against Ivory Coast before grinding out a 2-1 win, then took a one goal lead against Ecuador only to lose 2-1 in their group finale.
Germany is a program with plenty to prove after failing to advance past the group stage in each of the previous two World Cups. Still, the talent is undeniable between Deniz Undav (three goals), Kai Havertz (two goals), Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sane.
The four-time world champions last lifted the trophy in 2014 and are eager to remind the world they belong in that conversation.
Germany and Paraguay meet in the Round of 32, pitting one of the world's most storied programs against a South American side that barely snuck into the knockout round.
The Germans won Group E despite living dangerously throughout: they surrendered an early goal to Curaçao before winning 7-1, conceded first against Ivory Coast before grinding out a 2-1 win, then took a one goal lead against Ecuador only to lose 2-1 in their group finale.
Germany is a program with plenty to prove after failing to advance past the group stage in each of the previous two World Cups. Still, the talent is undeniable between Deniz Undav (three goals), Kai Havertz (two goals), Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sane.
The four-time world champions last lifted the trophy in 2014 and are eager to remind the world they belong in that conversation.
1 month ago
Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala is subject to countless edits on TikTok and Instagram, 99% of which showcase his dribbling ability. Previously, Musiala shared that one of his biggest inspirations and idols happens to be Lionel Messi.
In a recent interview captured by iMiaSanMia, Musiala talked about this immense admiration for Messi, who just celebrated his 39th birthday. Despite the Argentine icon and 2022 FIFA World Cup winner reaching the twilight of his career, the young playmaker believes there is still plenty to learn from the footballing legend.
“What more can you say about Messi?” Musiala said, when asked if he was still the German national’s idol. “The quality he’s still showing today suggests he could probably still be playing at 60 years old. He’s a superstar who continues to improve his teammates. Argentina are also a top-level team. I think every player can still learn something from Messi, even at this World Cup.”
Musiala is really showing his appreciation for true greatness and longevity at the absolute highest level here. The young German star is highlighting the exact qualities he surely wants to replicate in his own career, and it shows a fantastic mindset where despite already being a world-class talent himself, Musiala is still acting like a student of the game, constantly looking to study the best in the business to take his own performances to the next level.
Do you think Musiala can reach the same legendary heights as his idol, or are the comparisons too much pressure? Let us know in the comments!
In a recent interview captured by iMiaSanMia, Musiala talked about this immense admiration for Messi, who just celebrated his 39th birthday. Despite the Argentine icon and 2022 FIFA World Cup winner reaching the twilight of his career, the young playmaker believes there is still plenty to learn from the footballing legend.
“What more can you say about Messi?” Musiala said, when asked if he was still the German national’s idol. “The quality he’s still showing today suggests he could probably still be playing at 60 years old. He’s a superstar who continues to improve his teammates. Argentina are also a top-level team. I think every player can still learn something from Messi, even at this World Cup.”
Musiala is really showing his appreciation for true greatness and longevity at the absolute highest level here. The young German star is highlighting the exact qualities he surely wants to replicate in his own career, and it shows a fantastic mindset where despite already being a world-class talent himself, Musiala is still acting like a student of the game, constantly looking to study the best in the business to take his own performances to the next level.
Do you think Musiala can reach the same legendary heights as his idol, or are the comparisons too much pressure? Let us know in the comments!
1 month ago
To hear Deniz Undav and Joshua Kimmich tell the tale of Germany's 2-1 loss to Ecuador, there was a common theme — the South Americans just simply wanted it more.
Those were not the only players who came to that conclusion, though. Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala echoed his more experienced and grizzled teammates.
"Ecuador were perhaps a bit more hungry to win the game. The intensity and aggression of their play were high. We have to learn from this defeat and prepare properly for the important phase of the tournament. We can't afford to make these mistakes again," Musiala said (as captured by iMiaSanMia).
Interestingly, German head coach Julian Nagelsmann did not see it the same way and scoffed at the notion that Ecuador could want it more than his team. In the end, though, many observers concurred with Undav, Kimmich, and Musiala — the Germans did not play as hard, aggressive, or as focused as Ecuador, which proved to be the difference in the game.
Maybe, there is a disconnect between Nagelsmann and his locker room. If so, the Germans had better get aligned quickly ahead of the knockout stages.
Those were not the only players who came to that conclusion, though. Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala echoed his more experienced and grizzled teammates.
"Ecuador were perhaps a bit more hungry to win the game. The intensity and aggression of their play were high. We have to learn from this defeat and prepare properly for the important phase of the tournament. We can't afford to make these mistakes again," Musiala said (as captured by iMiaSanMia).
Interestingly, German head coach Julian Nagelsmann did not see it the same way and scoffed at the notion that Ecuador could want it more than his team. In the end, though, many observers concurred with Undav, Kimmich, and Musiala — the Germans did not play as hard, aggressive, or as focused as Ecuador, which proved to be the difference in the game.
Maybe, there is a disconnect between Nagelsmann and his locker room. If so, the Germans had better get aligned quickly ahead of the knockout stages.
2 months ago
So much for Deniz Undav’s big moment.
Germany will be sticking to its guns and treating tomorrow’s World Cup group stage match against Ecuador as if everything was on the line — even though, thanks to a new FIFA tiebreaks rule at this tournament, nothing is.
Win, lose, or draw, the Germans have clinched Group E after a gritty 2-1 comeback win over Ivory Coast last weekend. But rather than use the opportunity to turn the spotlight on some of the lesser-used players on the roster — including those who have yet to have a major tournament debut in national team colors — head coach Julian Nagelsmann has decided to remain committed to the process. And that means preparing in a consistent manner throughout the tournament.
“That’s the most legitimate question of all, the discussion about whether or not to make changes,” Nagelsmann explained in match preview comments captured via iMiaSanMia. “We in the coaching staff also discussed and considered this extensively.
“Looking at the weeks leading up to the World Cup, one of the key topics was that the team needed time to gel and that we hadn’t played enough games together. Now we’ve played two matches, and we’re already debating how many changes to make. I don’t see the point in that. With Kai [Havertz], Jamal [Musiala], and Felix [Nmecha], we had players who were away from the national team for up to a year. We’ve now secured two wins, which is important for the standings.
Germany will be sticking to its guns and treating tomorrow’s World Cup group stage match against Ecuador as if everything was on the line — even though, thanks to a new FIFA tiebreaks rule at this tournament, nothing is.
Win, lose, or draw, the Germans have clinched Group E after a gritty 2-1 comeback win over Ivory Coast last weekend. But rather than use the opportunity to turn the spotlight on some of the lesser-used players on the roster — including those who have yet to have a major tournament debut in national team colors — head coach Julian Nagelsmann has decided to remain committed to the process. And that means preparing in a consistent manner throughout the tournament.
“That’s the most legitimate question of all, the discussion about whether or not to make changes,” Nagelsmann explained in match preview comments captured via iMiaSanMia. “We in the coaching staff also discussed and considered this extensively.
“Looking at the weeks leading up to the World Cup, one of the key topics was that the team needed time to gel and that we hadn’t played enough games together. Now we’ve played two matches, and we’re already debating how many changes to make. I don’t see the point in that. With Kai [Havertz], Jamal [Musiala], and Felix [Nmecha], we had players who were away from the national team for up to a year. We’ve now secured two wins, which is important for the standings.
2 months ago
Bayern Munich is seeing (and probably hearing) the news about Michael Olise and how both Real Madrid and Manchester City could come calling for the attacker.
The Bavarians are going to try and get out in front of this by offering the Frenchman an annual salary of €25 million per season. For perspective, only Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane (also due for a big raise), Joshua Kimmich, and Manuel Neuer made that much this past season:
Bayern want to nearly double Michael Olise’s wages in Munich as part of a deal to keep him at the club until 2031. You’ve heard the saying, if in trouble, make it double. The trouble is from Real Madrid – they really want him, and they’re fully aware of just how good he was in the Bundesliga this season. He was the player of the year in Germany and has enjoyed a remarkable transformation since his €50m move from Crystal Palace. It wasn’t a €100m deal like Harry Kane’s, which is why his salary isn’t up to par with the likes of the Englishman or Jamal Musiala. He’s right in the middle of the squad’s earners, so about €15m.
Now, of course, he’s one of the most important players in the first XI, so he deserves more money. That’s why FC Bayern are prepared to give Michael Olise more money, and their argument is that if they’re prepared to offer more money, perhaps the France international can give them a few more years on the contract. In Germany, you can make a deal up to five years long, so the idea would be a contract until 2031. With that in mind, he can get closer to the top earners at Bayern Munich at around €25m a year.
Speaking of Olise, there was another — more creative — rumor linking him to Real Madrid.
The Bavarians are going to try and get out in front of this by offering the Frenchman an annual salary of €25 million per season. For perspective, only Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane (also due for a big raise), Joshua Kimmich, and Manuel Neuer made that much this past season:
Bayern want to nearly double Michael Olise’s wages in Munich as part of a deal to keep him at the club until 2031. You’ve heard the saying, if in trouble, make it double. The trouble is from Real Madrid – they really want him, and they’re fully aware of just how good he was in the Bundesliga this season. He was the player of the year in Germany and has enjoyed a remarkable transformation since his €50m move from Crystal Palace. It wasn’t a €100m deal like Harry Kane’s, which is why his salary isn’t up to par with the likes of the Englishman or Jamal Musiala. He’s right in the middle of the squad’s earners, so about €15m.
Now, of course, he’s one of the most important players in the first XI, so he deserves more money. That’s why FC Bayern are prepared to give Michael Olise more money, and their argument is that if they’re prepared to offer more money, perhaps the France international can give them a few more years on the contract. In Germany, you can make a deal up to five years long, so the idea would be a contract until 2031. With that in mind, he can get closer to the top earners at Bayern Munich at around €25m a year.
Speaking of Olise, there was another — more creative — rumor linking him to Real Madrid.
2 months ago
Austria coach Ralf Rangnick was highly amused by a small PR coup while Jamal Musiala will probably have to carry a roll of tape with him for the next few weeks.
The Germany star’s headphones are not made by a World Cup sponsor which means that he had to cover the clearly visible logo with tape in official tournament areas.
The zeal with which world governing body FIFA protects the exclusivity of its sponsors at the World Cup is causing more than just surprise. It is also prompting companies that are not among the official sponsors to come up with clever ideas.
What the sponsors pay
Being an official FIFA or World Cup sponsor is not cheap.
The Germany star’s headphones are not made by a World Cup sponsor which means that he had to cover the clearly visible logo with tape in official tournament areas.
The zeal with which world governing body FIFA protects the exclusivity of its sponsors at the World Cup is causing more than just surprise. It is also prompting companies that are not among the official sponsors to come up with clever ideas.
What the sponsors pay
Being an official FIFA or World Cup sponsor is not cheap.
2 months ago
Germany and Ivory Coast face off this Saturday at the BMO Field in World Cup. The match will be broadcast live at 21:00 on ITV 1.
In their last game, Germany won 7-1 against Curaçao (World Cup 2026). Last time out, Ivory Coast triumphed 1-0 against Ecuador (World Cup 2026).
Germany ( vs Curaçao 2026-06-14): Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, Nico Schlotterbeck, Jonathan Tah, Nathaniel Brown, Felix Nmecha, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Leroy Sané, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Kai Havertz
Ivory Coast ( vs Ecuador 2026-06-15): Yahia Fofana, Guéla Doué, Emmanuel Agbadou, Wilfried Singo, Ghislain Konan, Yan Diomande, Seko Fofana, Franck Kessié, Bazoumana Touré, Elye Wahi, Nicolas Pépé
In their last game, Germany won 7-1 against Curaçao (World Cup 2026). Last time out, Ivory Coast triumphed 1-0 against Ecuador (World Cup 2026).
Germany ( vs Curaçao 2026-06-14): Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, Nico Schlotterbeck, Jonathan Tah, Nathaniel Brown, Felix Nmecha, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Leroy Sané, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Kai Havertz
Ivory Coast ( vs Ecuador 2026-06-15): Yahia Fofana, Guéla Doué, Emmanuel Agbadou, Wilfried Singo, Ghislain Konan, Yan Diomande, Seko Fofana, Franck Kessié, Bazoumana Touré, Elye Wahi, Nicolas Pépé
2 months ago
Curacao's World Cup debut may have ended in a reality check of a 7-1 hammering by four-time champions Germany on Sunday but it "is nothing to be ashamed of" said their head coach ***** Advocaat.
The 78-year-old, the oldest coach to appear at a World Cup finals, had been out of his seat when a deflected strike from Livano Comenencia levelled the match at 1-1.
However, Nico Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz with a double, Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav scored to put to bed any possibility of one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history.
"It is not embarrassing to lose like that against such a team," said Advocaat at the post match press conference in Houston.
"This team (Germany) is worth 850 million and Curacao, 25."
The 78-year-old, the oldest coach to appear at a World Cup finals, had been out of his seat when a deflected strike from Livano Comenencia levelled the match at 1-1.
However, Nico Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz with a double, Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav scored to put to bed any possibility of one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history.
"It is not embarrassing to lose like that against such a team," said Advocaat at the post match press conference in Houston.
"This team (Germany) is worth 850 million and Curacao, 25."
2 months ago
At first, Jamal Musiala’s substitution after 64 minutes in Germany’s 7-1 victory over Curaçao in their World Cup opener did not seem abnormal. Musiala is still on the path to full fitness and had scored a goal to make it 4-1 for the 2014 World cup winners, so he was taken off to give him some well earned rest.
But Germany’s #10 clutched his thigh as he walked off and immediately disappeared into the locker room after he got brought off. Was there something more to the story? After the match, Sky Germany reporter Kerry Hau got confirmation off of Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann that Musiala’s substitution was fitness related, but also that it was nothing abnormal:
All clear for Jamal Musiala, who frequently clutched his thigh during the game and also headed to the locker room after being substituted. It’s “normal” and “nothing serious,” says Julian Nagelsmann. Pure precautionary measure!
Outside of the goal, this was perhaps Musiala’s best performance in a long time. It would have been a massive shame if the Bayern Munich player’s injury problems forced him off just as his form started to trend upwards.
If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…
But Germany’s #10 clutched his thigh as he walked off and immediately disappeared into the locker room after he got brought off. Was there something more to the story? After the match, Sky Germany reporter Kerry Hau got confirmation off of Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann that Musiala’s substitution was fitness related, but also that it was nothing abnormal:
All clear for Jamal Musiala, who frequently clutched his thigh during the game and also headed to the locker room after being substituted. It’s “normal” and “nothing serious,” says Julian Nagelsmann. Pure precautionary measure!
Outside of the goal, this was perhaps Musiala’s best performance in a long time. It would have been a massive shame if the Bayern Munich player’s injury problems forced him off just as his form started to trend upwards.
If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…
2 months ago
Despite being pegged back after Felix Nmecha’s early opener, Julian Nagelsmann’s side quickly regained control and eventually overwhelmed their opponents. Goals from Nico Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz (2), Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav completed a dominant display as Germany flexed their attacking quality.
As expected, Germany started on the front foot, monopolising possession and pinning Curaçao deep inside their own half. Their early pressure paid off after just six minutes when Nmecha exchanged a neat one-two with Florian Wirtz on the edge of the box before curling a superb effort beyond the unsighted Eloy Room to give Die Nationalelf a deserved lead.
After 15 minutes of one-way traffic, however, Curaçao began to grow into the contest. With Germany showing signs of complacency, **** Advocaat’s side started to threaten on the counter-attack and stunned their illustrious opponents with a historic equaliser in the 21st minute.
An attempted through ball was only partially cleared by Schlotterbeck, allowing Jurgen Locadia to keep the move alive before the ball broke kindly for Livano Comenencia. The midfielder unleashed a strike from the edge of the area that took a deflection off Joshua Kimmich and wrong-footed Manuel Neuer on its way into the net, handing Curaçao their first-ever World Cup goal and levelling the scores at 1-1.
The subsequent hydration break arrived at an unfortunate moment for the Blue Wave, disrupting their momentum and allowing Germany to regroup. Nagelsmann’s men soon reasserted their authority and eventually restored their lead in the 38th minute.
As expected, Germany started on the front foot, monopolising possession and pinning Curaçao deep inside their own half. Their early pressure paid off after just six minutes when Nmecha exchanged a neat one-two with Florian Wirtz on the edge of the box before curling a superb effort beyond the unsighted Eloy Room to give Die Nationalelf a deserved lead.
After 15 minutes of one-way traffic, however, Curaçao began to grow into the contest. With Germany showing signs of complacency, **** Advocaat’s side started to threaten on the counter-attack and stunned their illustrious opponents with a historic equaliser in the 21st minute.
An attempted through ball was only partially cleared by Schlotterbeck, allowing Jurgen Locadia to keep the move alive before the ball broke kindly for Livano Comenencia. The midfielder unleashed a strike from the edge of the area that took a deflection off Joshua Kimmich and wrong-footed Manuel Neuer on its way into the net, handing Curaçao their first-ever World Cup goal and levelling the scores at 1-1.
The subsequent hydration break arrived at an unfortunate moment for the Blue Wave, disrupting their momentum and allowing Germany to regroup. Nagelsmann’s men soon reasserted their authority and eventually restored their lead in the 38th minute.
2 months ago
Germany face Curacao in Group E - listen live at top of page
Nmecha scores superb opener for Germany after six minutes
Comenencia levels with Curacao's first World Cup goal to stun Germany
Schlotterbeck nods Germany back in front & Havertz nets from spot before Musiala, Brown and Undav score to make it six
Match being played at Houston Stadium in United States
Nmecha scores superb opener for Germany after six minutes
Comenencia levels with Curacao's first World Cup goal to stun Germany
Schlotterbeck nods Germany back in front & Havertz nets from spot before Musiala, Brown and Undav score to make it six
Match being played at Houston Stadium in United States
2 months ago
47′ – TOR! Jamal Musiala scores from a tight angle off a Joshua Kimmich through pass.
46′ – The second half has kicked off!
Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz both look much better than in the last game against the USMNT
Counters and defending in general is still an area for improvement for Germany
Curaçao equalizing was a massive moment for them.
46′ – The second half has kicked off!
Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz both look much better than in the last game against the USMNT
Counters and defending in general is still an area for improvement for Germany
Curaçao equalizing was a massive moment for them.
2 months ago
One thing is already certain: there is no boredom with the DFB team at this World Cup. In the opening match against Curaçao, it was first a dream start through Felix Nmecha, followed by a bitter setback with the equalizer. Germany was still able to calm the nerves with a quick double strike before the break.
After a corner from Nathaniel Brown, Nico Schlotterbeck powered the DFB team back into the lead with a header.
Even before the halftime whistle, the DFB team had more promising chances to score. However, Pavlovic, Brown and Musiala were initially unable to make them count.
With the final action of the first half, the impressive Nmecha was fouled again in the penalty area - penalty. Kai Havertz nudged the ball over the line, and Germany heads into the dressing room with a small cushion.
After a corner from Nathaniel Brown, Nico Schlotterbeck powered the DFB team back into the lead with a header.
Even before the halftime whistle, the DFB team had more promising chances to score. However, Pavlovic, Brown and Musiala were initially unable to make them count.
With the final action of the first half, the impressive Nmecha was fouled again in the penalty area - penalty. Kai Havertz nudged the ball over the line, and Germany heads into the dressing room with a small cushion.
2 months ago
Former Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer thinks that Jamal Musiala is on the verge of a breakout and will show up big as the World Cup goes on.
“I’m absolutely convinced that Jamal Musiala will improve significantly as the tournament unfolds. Maybe not in the first match, maybe in the second – Then comes the knockout stage and suddenly he’ll explode. He’s gradually taking steps forward. When you have a world-class player, you should trust and support him. The coaching staff and his teammates should make him feel: ‘Yes, we know you’re not at 100% yet, but you will be. Join in, we trust you and you trust us,” Sammer said during an appearance on Sky Germany (as captured by iMiaSanMia).
Musiala has not been at his best so far, but Germany will need him to be moving forward. If that is possible or not in this tourney does remain a massive question.
Most observers know and understand the great potential that Musiala has. However, the catastrophic injury that Musiala suffered in the Club World Cup last summer has had lingering effects on the 23-year-old.
The Bayern Munich star has spoken about the difficulties that he has faced both physically and mentally and has not looked close to his old self — at least not yet. Last month, Nagelsmann spoke about Musiala not being 100% and spun it in a positive way by stating, “Even at 95 percent, Jamal is still one of the most extraordinary players on the planet. I’m incredibly happy he’s back and will help us.”
“I’m absolutely convinced that Jamal Musiala will improve significantly as the tournament unfolds. Maybe not in the first match, maybe in the second – Then comes the knockout stage and suddenly he’ll explode. He’s gradually taking steps forward. When you have a world-class player, you should trust and support him. The coaching staff and his teammates should make him feel: ‘Yes, we know you’re not at 100% yet, but you will be. Join in, we trust you and you trust us,” Sammer said during an appearance on Sky Germany (as captured by iMiaSanMia).
Musiala has not been at his best so far, but Germany will need him to be moving forward. If that is possible or not in this tourney does remain a massive question.
Most observers know and understand the great potential that Musiala has. However, the catastrophic injury that Musiala suffered in the Club World Cup last summer has had lingering effects on the 23-year-old.
The Bayern Munich star has spoken about the difficulties that he has faced both physically and mentally and has not looked close to his old self — at least not yet. Last month, Nagelsmann spoke about Musiala not being 100% and spun it in a positive way by stating, “Even at 95 percent, Jamal is still one of the most extraordinary players on the planet. I’m incredibly happy he’s back and will help us.”
2 months ago
Germany’s dress rehearsal for the World Cup was a success. Julian Nagelsmann’s side beat USA 2-1 in Chicago in their final friendly before the start of the tournament. Five FC Bayern players were involved, with Jonathan Tah playing the full 90 minutes, Aleksandar Pavlović and Jamal Musiala both playing 80 minutes, Joshua Kimmich on the pitch until the 61st minute and Leon Goretzka coming on for the final ten. Kimmich set up the early opening goal for Kai Havertz after just two minutes. After the Americans equalised through Antonee Robinson (37’), former Bayern man Leroy Sané restored the Germans' lead on 57 minutes.
Germany begin their World Cup campaign on Sunday 14 June against Curaçao in Houston.
The England national team also registered a narrow victory on Saturday ahead of the World Cup. FCB striker Harry Kane led out the Three Lions as captain in Tampa and scored the only goal of the game against New Zealand in first-half stoppage time, before being replaced at half-time.
England play one more warm-up match this Wednesday (22:00 CEST) against Costa Rica in Orlando. The World Cup kicks off for Kane and Co against Croatia in Dallas on 17 June.
Find out which FC Bayern players are involved in the World Cup finals here:
Germany begin their World Cup campaign on Sunday 14 June against Curaçao in Houston.
The England national team also registered a narrow victory on Saturday ahead of the World Cup. FCB striker Harry Kane led out the Three Lions as captain in Tampa and scored the only goal of the game against New Zealand in first-half stoppage time, before being replaced at half-time.
England play one more warm-up match this Wednesday (22:00 CEST) against Costa Rica in Orlando. The World Cup kicks off for Kane and Co against Croatia in Dallas on 17 June.
Find out which FC Bayern players are involved in the World Cup finals here:
2 months ago
48’: Bauman makes several impressive saves to deny the hosts the goal that would’ve put them in front.
46’: We’re back for the second half, no changes from either side.
Germany has looked uninspiring even with the early goal.
The USMNT looked even more threatening than Germany.
Musiala and Sané have been disappointing. The whole team has been disappointing.
46’: We’re back for the second half, no changes from either side.
Germany has looked uninspiring even with the early goal.
The USMNT looked even more threatening than Germany.
Musiala and Sané have been disappointing. The whole team has been disappointing.
2 months ago
In a somewhat shocking report, Bayern Munich has been linked to Aston Villa attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers — and it is not as if this report came from Don Balon or anything. It is from a legitimate source, The Athletic:
Bayern have been discussed as a possible destination for Morgan Rogers for several months. Vincent Kompany admires the player but nothing concrete has yet developed.
This is odd to say the least. Rogers has been very closely linked to ****** nal, but would Bayern Munich really be ready to pay big for another attacking midfielder?
Right now, the Bavarians has been linked closely to PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder Ismael Saibari, which begs the question — why an attacking midfielder? Bayern Munich already has Jamal Musiala, Serge Gnabry, and Lennart Karl among options at the position.
Is Bayern Munich worried about Musiala’s future or something? Would Rogers or Saibari be able to play another position? Is the club toying with a move to wing for Musiala?
Bayern have been discussed as a possible destination for Morgan Rogers for several months. Vincent Kompany admires the player but nothing concrete has yet developed.
This is odd to say the least. Rogers has been very closely linked to ****** nal, but would Bayern Munich really be ready to pay big for another attacking midfielder?
Right now, the Bavarians has been linked closely to PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder Ismael Saibari, which begs the question — why an attacking midfielder? Bayern Munich already has Jamal Musiala, Serge Gnabry, and Lennart Karl among options at the position.
Is Bayern Munich worried about Musiala’s future or something? Would Rogers or Saibari be able to play another position? Is the club toying with a move to wing for Musiala?