As England prepare to face Germany on Monday coming off the back of consecutive defeats to Hungary and Italy, they will have to find a way to stop Germany’s Jamal Musiala. In another world, it could have been Germany’s Hansi Flick having to come up with the plan to combat him.
Musiala will start against England at Wembley it what will be an emotional occasion for the 19-year-old. The in-form Bayern youngster represented England (where he grew up from the age of seven) at all levels from U-15 right up to U-21 whilst coming through Chelsea’s academy.
He however opted to declare for the country of his birth and mother in February 2021. Now he goes head-to-head with England as Germany’s big hope going into this winter’s World Cup in Qatar.
“I always feel good when I’m in England” he said at the pre-match press conference. “I’m motivated to play against England. Given my background, I really enjoy it and really want to do it. As a child I always wanted to play in big games. It was not an easy decision that I made with my family and other people. But I’m very happy with it.
The fact that Musiala was put forward to join Hansi Flick at the press conference just goes to show the high esteem he is held in and highlights the maturity levels he has reached.
“I don’t know exactly how many times I’ve played here [Wembley]. I’ve had a few school games here at tournaments. The stadium is insane, and the vibe is always cool. I always want to play, no matter how many minutes. I’m always hungry to play.
“England has a lot of quality. It’s the perfect game for both teams, both want to go into the World Cup with confidence. I was a little shocked at the results given the strength of the England squad.
“I’ve made it my goal to develop further. The way I’m going is just fine. I don’t feel any extra pressure, I just want to help the team. I always have the same attitude. I try to give everything in the game. I have the same motivation for every game. I don’t let circumstances change my mentality.”
