‘I learned so much from him’ – Jamal Musiala names best Bayern Munich team-mate and toughest Real Madrid opponent

Jamal Musiala reveals why Thomas Muller is his all-time Bayern Munich favourite, and what makes Antonio Rudiger a nightmare defender

In a candid, heartfelt interview that mixes reflection with ambition, Bayern Munich’s rising superstar Jamal Musiala opened up about his footballing inspirations, toughest challenges, and emotional setbacks. Speaking to The Athletic in a feature centered around his debut on the EA FC 26 cover, the 22-year-old didn’t hold back when asked to name his best-ever team-mate at Bayern Munich — and the most difficult opponent he’s faced on the pitch.

The names? None other than club icon Thomas Muller and Real Madrid’s rock-solid centre-back Antonio Rudiger.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Musiala, who has grown from teenage prodigy into one of Europe’s most exciting attacking midfielders, sat down with The Athletic to discuss his journey so far. And in a moment of appreciation, he didn’t hesitate to credit veteran forward Thomas Muller for shaping much of what he’s become on the pitch.

“I will give that to Thomas Muller,” Jamal Musiala said when asked about his greatest team-mate. “I’ve learned so much from him — so many little bits of advice — and I’ve had so much fun playing with him. There are so many players I could say, but Thomas is at the top.”

Musiala went on to share how Muller’s intelligence, spatial awareness, and vocal leadership rubbed off on him during his formative Bundesliga years. Both have operated in similar attacking midfield roles, often linking up in Bayern’s 4-2-3-1 or 4-1-4-1 system — with Muller often occupying the space behind the striker and Jamal Musiala drifting between the half-spaces.

“He’s constantly talking, making runs that help open space, and always giving you information. He makes things easier for you, whether it’s during training or in a Champions League match,” Jamal Musiala explained.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

FBL-GER-BUNDESLIGA-BAYERN MUNICH-TEAM-PRESENTATION

Musiala’s respect for Muller runs deeper than just positional overlap. The 34-year-old Bayern legend has not only been a mentor on the field but a guiding force behind the scenes. Since breaking into the senior team in 2020, Jamal Musiala has grown rapidly — not just in technique, but in maturity, decision-making, and leadership. Many around the club believe he is destined to wear the armband one day.

While Muller’s influence was the nurturing kind, Jamal Musiala also spoke about a very different kind of presence on the pitch — one that made life far more difficult: Antonio Rudiger.

“We played against Real Madrid in the Champions League and that was quite tough,” Jamal Musiala said. “I’ve known him for quite a few years. And, yeah, it’s not nice to play against him.”

Rudiger, with his imposing physicality, relentless energy, and tenacious style, gave Jamal Musiala little room to breathe during Bayern’s 2023-24 Champions League semi-final clash with Real Madrid. The young playmaker was effectively neutralised over both legs and failed to register a goal or assist.

“He’s aggressive, smart, and reads the game so well,” said Jamal Musiala. “You always feel like he’s a step ahead. And when he’s fired up, it’s nearly impossible to find any rhythm.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Musiala’s football journey began with Chelsea’s youth academy before he chose to switch allegiance to Germany and join Bayern’s senior ranks. Despite being born in Stuttgart, he spent much of his youth in England, making his choice of international team a hot topic of discussion early in his career. Since breaking through at Bayern, he’s amassed over 150 appearances and contributed more than 45 goals and assists combined — an astonishing return for someone who only turned 22 this year.

In 2023, Jamal Musiala featured prominently in Bayern’s domestic and European campaigns, but he was dealt a cruel blow just when things were heating up. During the Club World Cup quarter-final against PSG, he suffered a devastating fibula fracture and ankle dislocation following a heavy challenge.

WHAT NEXT FOR JAMAL MUSIALA?

Paris Saint-Germain v FC Bayern Munchen: Quarter-final – FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Now sidelined for up to five months, Jamal Musiala’s primary focus is recovery. Following successful surgery, Bayern’s medical staff have laid out a detailed rehabilitation plan aimed at returning him to full fitness by the end of the year. Though he’ll miss the start of the 2025 Bundesliga campaign and a portion of Bayern’s Champions League fixtures, the club is confident he will return stronger.

“I’ll use this time to reset, reflect, and come back even better,” Jamal Musiala shared in a social media post. “It’s frustrating, but I’m grateful for all the support. I’ll be back soon.”

While sidelined, Jamal Musiala is expected to work closely with Bayern’s rehab team, focusing on core strength, mobility, and regaining match sharpness. He’s also using the time to study game footage, improve his tactical understanding, and support younger academy players.

A COVER STAR ON THE RISE

Musiala’s inclusion on the EA FC 26 cover — alongside Jude Bellingham — is further recognition of his soaring profile. The pair, who once faced off in Der Klassiker, are now the poster boys for a new generation of global football.

Their paths have mirrored each other in many ways — young prodigies, international stars, midfield orchestrators — but their friendship and rivalry continue to push both forward.

“It’s amazing to share this cover with Jude,” said Jamal Musiala. “We’ve come a long way since those academy days. I think we both just love the game. That’s what drives us.”

FINAL WORD

Musiala’s story is still being written, but the chapters so far are already filled with brilliance, adversity, and admiration. Whether it’s learning from Muller, battling Rudiger, or recovering from injury, the Bayern star continues to evolve both as a footballer and as a person.

He might be temporarily off the pitch, but make no mistake — Jamal Musiala’s best is yet to come.