Gianluigi Donnarumma Seeks Psychological Help After Musiala Injury, Doubtful for Real Madrid Clash
In a dramatic FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal clash between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain held in Atlanta, Georgia, the German giants suffered a double blow. Not only did Bayern lose 0-2, but they also saw their star youngster Jamal Musiala sustain a horrific injury just before halftime.
The incident occurred during a 50/50 challenge between Musiala and PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. While the Italian goalkeeper legally challenged for the ball, the outcome was devastating. Post-match medical reports confirmed that Musiala suffered a fractured fibula and ligament damage to his left ankle. The severity of the injury forced broadcaster DAZN to halt replays of the collision. Musiala is expected to be sidelined for at least five months.
Following the incident, Donnarumma reportedly showed visible distress. He was seen expressing deep remorse and reportedly sought psychological assistance from Joaquin Valdes, PSG’s team psychologist, according to RMC Sport. Donnarumma also reached out personally to Musiala and went to Bayern’s locker room to apologize in person.
PSG’s latest training session took place without Donnarumma, raising concerns over his mental readiness to face Real Madrid in the upcoming quarterfinal on July 10 at 2 AM KST.
Although Bayern figures including coach Vincent Kompany, sporting director Max Eberl, and veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer criticized Donnarumma’s aggressive play, experts have clarified that the Italian was within the bounds of the rules. The incident was deemed a freak accident, where the force of another player’s movement led to Musiala’s leg being trapped under Donnarumma’s arm, resulting in the injury.
Musiala’s injury adds to Bayern’s growing woes. The club is already without Alphonso Davies until mid-season, has lost Leroy Sané to Galatasaray, and Thomas Müller has recently played his final match for the club. The pressure now mounts on Bayern to secure more attacking reinforcements, beyond their recent signing Nick Woltemade, to fill the void left by Musiala’s absence.
