Jamal Musiala’s mystery collapses explained as Bayern Munich star faces long-term treatment

Prof. Christoph Kleinschnitz, head of neurology at the University Hospital Essen, has offered an insight into Jamal Musiala’s recent collapses, suggesting the Bayern Munich midfielder’s condition may be less serious than initially feared.

Musiala has confirmed that he has been diagnosed with brief, temporary and treatable “absences” caused by a neurological dysfunction after twice collapsing during matches against RB Leipzig and Heidenheim.

The episodes have raised concerns among Bayern supporters, particularly because Musiala can suddenly fall to the ground or appear unresponsive for a short period. His condition is understood to involve brief interruptions in awareness, which can explain the alarming nature of the incidents.

Kleinschnitz was contacted by German outlet BILD this week to assess the possible neurological explanation behind the episodes. While stressing that a definitive diagnosis would require access to Musiala’s complete medical examinations, the specialist believes the symptoms could point towards a form of epilepsy.

“From a neurological perspective, this could potentially be an epileptic seizure. It could be a form of absence epilepsy, as symptoms such as brief periods of unresponsiveness are consistent with it.

“However, we would need to know all the findings from the neurological examinations to make that assessment. It is highly treatable, but would require long-term therapy. Musiala can continue playing football.”

Bayern aware of Musiala’s condition

The development comes after Bayern sporting director Max Eberl revealed that the German giants became aware of Musiala’s condition this week as the club began working on how best to manage the issue.

Musiala’s collapses have understandably generated considerable concern, with supporters chanting his name after both incidents in a show of support for the highly regarded midfielder.

The 23-year-old remains one of Bayern’s most important players and has established himself as a key figure for both club and country. His health, therefore, is likely to remain a major talking point as the Bavarian giants prepare for the new campaign.

The latest assessment from Kleinschnitz, however, provides some reassurance. Although any possible epilepsy diagnosis would require careful neurological evaluation and potentially long-term treatment, the specialist does not believe the condition should automatically prevent Musiala from continuing his football career.

Musiala’s return remains uncertain

Bayern are now preparing for a demanding start to the season, with the Bundesliga champions set to begin their title defence at home against VfB Stuttgart.

That fixture comes just six days after the German Super Cup showdown with Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, leaving little time for the club to assess Musiala’s readiness and determine how best to handle his return.

Whether Musiala will be available remains uncertain, with Bayern expected to take a cautious approach given the nature of his recent episodes.

For now, the priority will be to understand the neurological dysfunction fully, establish the appropriate treatment and ensure the midfielder can return safely.

Kleinschnitz’s assessment should ease some of the immediate fears surrounding Musiala, particularly his confirmation that the condition is highly treatable and does not necessarily spell the end of his playing career.

Bayern will nevertheless continue working behind the scenes to support their young star as he undergoes further medical assessment and begins managing a condition that has already caused significant concern among the club’s passionate supporters.