Kompany praises Musiala's recent form as Bayern prepare for Champions League

Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany has highlighted the improved form of attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala, noting the player is performing with greater freedom as the club enters the final stages of the season. Kompany's comments came after Bayern's 2-0 DFB-Pokal semi-final victory over Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, a match in which Musiala provided the assist for Harry Kane's opening goal.

This marked the fourth consecutive game in which the 23-year-old Germany international has directly contributed to a goal, a clear sign of returning momentum. According to Kompany, speaking at a post-match press conference, this upturn is linked to a more liberated approach from the player. "Jamal was good today, that was obvious," Kompany said. "He's been playing with more freedom in recent weeks. That obviously helps. Now you can see that this joy in his game is slowly coming back."

The return of this joy follows a challenging period for Musiala, who suffered a long-term muscle injury last summer that disrupted his start to the campaign. His consistent influence in the final third is a timely boost for Bayern, who have already secured the Bundesliga title but have crucial fixtures remaining. The Bavarian giants are set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final next Tuesday.

With the domestic title secured, Kompany indicated Musiala could be rested for Bayern's Bundesliga match against Mainz on Saturday. This would be a strategic move to ensure the player is fresh for the European showdown. Musiala's creativity and ability to unlock defences will be a key asset against PSG, as Bayern seek to progress to the final in London.

Musiala's development has been a central narrative at Bayern since his breakthrough, with his contract situation also a topic of ongoing discussion. His current deal runs until 2026, and his sustained high-level performances naturally fuel speculation about his long-term future at the club, though no immediate transfer movement is indicated. For now, the focus remains squarely on his pivotal role in Bayern's pursuit of a Champions League trophy to cap off Kompany's first season in charge.