Nagelsmann lauds ‘snake legs’ Musiala ahead of World Cup tilt

Bayern Munich manager Julian Nagelsmann has lauded forward Jamal Musiala’s development, saying the teenager can be “even better” for Germany at the World Cup in Qatar. 

Musiala, who grew up in England and represented the Three Lions at junior level but switched allegiance to Germany, set up both of Bayern’s goals in their 2-0 win away at Schalke. 

Nagelsmann said Musiala, who now has nine goals and six assists in 15 games this season, was committed to developing and improving his game. 

“Jamal Musiala has again set up two goals. He played an outstanding first half and will hopefully play even better in the World Cup and the second half of the (Bundesliga) season,” Nagelsmann told German television. 

“He listens well, also wants to develop in defence and has developed extremely well. 

“He has extremely lively feet, like snake legs – the rebounds always seem to land in front of his feet.”

Musiala became the youngest Bayern player to notch up 100 Bundesliga games at 19 years and 259 days on Saturday night.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said he is “happy” Musiala elected to play for Germany rather than England. 

“He is a very important – a key – player. We are happy that he’s with Bayern and also with the national team,” Neuer told Sky. 

Speaking after the match to Bundesliga International, Musiala said the three points would give his side a “good feeling” ahead of the World Cup break. 

“It was important that we got the three points to go with a good feeling into the World Cup break.”

Before the game Nagelsmann hinted his team selections were made with the World Cup in mind. “They need rhythm for the World Cup… that’s why we opted for the full squad.”