Musiala Reveals Diagnosis of "Absence Seizures" After Second On-Pitch Collapse
Munich, Germany – Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala has publicly addressed the alarming on-pitch collapses that have seen him fall ill twice in four days, revealing a diagnosis of "temporarily occurring, brief absence seizures." The 23-year-old, a pivotal figure for both club and country, reassured fans of his optimistic outlook and ongoing treatment for a neurological dysfunction, with the full support of FC Bayern and his medical team.
The incidents sent shockwaves through the football community, particularly the most recent one during Bayern’s final pre-season fixture against Heidenheim on Tuesday. Musiala, having entered the match in the 60th minute, appeared disoriented and collapsed roughly eight minutes later. In a display of immediate concern and solidarity, players from both teams quickly formed a protective guard around him as medics attended to his condition. Although he was eventually able to walk off the pitch unassisted, the episode mirrored a similar occurrence just days earlier.
During Saturday’s 3-1 friendly victory over RB Leipzig, Musiala exhibited similar symptoms, appearing disoriented before teammate Ismael Saibari swiftly intervened, catching him and gently lowering him to the ground. Following medical attention, Musiala was able to walk off the pitch and even returned to team training afterwards, raising initial hopes that the incident was isolated.
However, the recurrence prompted Musiala to provide a comprehensive explanation via an Instagram statement after Tuesday’s match. He began by expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and then directly addressed the growing concerns:
"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."
Musiala bravely acknowledged the frightening nature of these episodes for observers, but emphasized that they are currently part of his daily life. He highlighted that he is receiving "the best possible medical treatment" and maintains a "very optimistic" outlook, with FC Bayern and his personal circle providing unwavering support. Crucially, he clarified that "there is no additional health risk beyond this."
With the green light from neurological specialists, Musiala expressed his personal desire to face this challenge head-on and continue his passion for football, viewing it as integral to his recovery. He stated, "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." He concluded his statement by conveying a "very good feeling" about his progress and expressing his hope that his transparency would foster understanding, while also requesting privacy for the delicate matter.
Prior to Musiala’s statement, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl had indicated that the player would address the situation himself, stating after Tuesday’s match, "We knew about it and we are aware of the situation. Jamal will speak out. He’s in the dressing room, getting changed and taking a shower."
The timing of these events is particularly challenging for Musiala, who recently returned to action after a significant period on the sidelines. He had missed the first six months of the previous season due to a broken ankle sustained at the 2025 Club World Cup, limiting him to just 15 Bundesliga appearances. Despite this setback, he made a strong comeback in the latter half of the campaign, starting three of Germany’s four matches at the 2026 World Cup.
Now, with the Bundesliga title defence set to begin on August 28 against VfB Stuttgart and the Supercup clash against Borussia Dortmund looming on Saturday, questions naturally arise about Musiala’s immediate availability. His statement underscores his determination to continue playing, subject to ongoing medical oversight and specialist clearance. The football world will be keenly watching his recovery and return to the pitch, hopeful for the continued success of this exceptionally talented young player.
For more information, read the original shocking statement.
