Bayern Munich winger Jamal Musiala has finally shed light on the mystery of his two on-pitch collapses in four days, revealing he's been diagnosed with "treatable absence seizures" - which, as it turns out, are not nearly as dramatic as they sound, unless you're the one collapsing.
The 23-year-old, who hit the turf eight minutes after coming on as a substitute in Tuesday's friendly against Heidenheim, and also during Saturday's match against RB Leipzig, insists there's no long-term health risk. Because nothing says "no worries" like a neurological dysfunction that makes you fall over in front of thousands of people.
"First things first, I am doing well," Musiala posted on Instagram, clearly trying to calm the internet's collective panic. "I am incredibly grateful for your messages and your support!" He then explained that the seizures are "brief, temporary - but treatable - absence seizures resulting from a neurological dysfunction," which can lead to the kind of incidents that make everyone's hearts skip a beat.
Musiala, who is a Germany international, acknowledged that the episodes "might look alarming at first glance," but for him, they're just part of his everyday life. He's receiving "excellent medical care" and remains "very optimistic," with FC Bayern and his personal support network by his side. Crucially, he added, "there is no further health risk involved."
In a move that will surely delight his coaches, Musiala said it was his "personal wish" to face this challenge head-on, with the medical clearance of neurologists, by continuing to do what helps his recovery most: "simply living my life and pursuing my passion for playing football." Because nothing aids recovery quite like sprinting down a pitch.
During Tuesday's game, Musiala came on for Ismaël Saibari after 61 minutes but was replaced by Cassiano Kiala just eight minutes later, looking dazed as he was helped off. Bayern's sporting director, Max Eberl, promptly played down concerns, saying, "Jamal will speak about this in the near future. We knew about it and we are aware of the situation." Bayern still managed to win 4-2, with goals from Felipe Chavez, Arijon Ibrahimovic, Luis Diaz, and Nathaniel Brown, presumably unbothered by the drama.
The first collapse, against RB Leipzig, came after Musiala scored in the 81st minute to seal a 3-1 victory. He then fell to the ground and needed substitution, with 30C temperatures in Munich initially blamed. But now we know better - it was his brain playing tricks, not the heat.
Musiala assured fans he's "on the right track" and that what helps him most is "continuing to chase victories and titles with my team and with your amazing support." He asked for understanding regarding his wish to keep the matter private, sharing it only with his closest circle, the club, and the medical experts. So, you know, just the usual audience for a health scare.