Credit: Kai Pfaffenbach-Reuters via Imagn Images

Manuel Neuer Slams Gianluigi Donnarumma for ‘Reckless’ Challenge on Jamal Musiala

Bayern Munich Captain Criticizes PSG Goalkeeper After Musiala Suffers Horrific Injury in Club World Cup Clash.

Credit: Kai Pfaffenbach-Reuters via Imagn Images

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has strongly criticized Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma for his role in Jamal Musiala’s horrific injury during their Club World Cup quarterfinal in Atlanta. The German captain called the Italian keeper’s challenge “reckless”.

He also questioned the PSG goalkeeper’s sportsmanship after Musiala was stretchered off with a horrific leg injury. Speaking after the match, Neuer did not hold back in his assessment. He said, “It was a situation where you don’t have to go in like that; that’s reckless.”

He added, “He accepts the risk of injuring his opponent. I went to him and said, ‘Don’t you want to go over and see our player?’ It’s a matter of respect to wish the guy all the best. He did it afterwards, but fairness is always important. I would have reacted differently.”

Manuel Neuer also criticizes Donnarumma: "It was a situation where you don't have to go in like that. That's risk-taking. He was prepared to accept the risk of injuring his opponent."

"I went to him and said, 'Don't you want to go and see our player?' It's a matter of respect,… pic.twitter.com/FCCcXxFJ3t
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) July 5, 2025

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl echoed the sentiment. Eberl said, “If I jump onto his lower leg while sprinting, weighing 100 kg, there’s a high risk of something happening. I don’t think Donnarumma did it intentionally, but he also wasn’t being considerate.”

Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany admitted that he struggled to contain his emotions at halftime. He said, “My blood was boiling. There are more important things in life, but for these guys, it’s everything. Jamal just came back from a setback and now this happens. You feel powerless.”

Also Read: Jamal Musiala Injury Update: What Happened to the Bayern Munich Ace?

How Did Musiala Sustain the Injury?

Musiala’s injury occurred late in the first half when he chased a loose ball into PSG’s penalty area. As the 22-year-old midfielder rushed forward, PSG goalkeeper Donnarumma dived to claim possession and collided with Musiala’s left leg, resulting in a horrific scene.

Musiala’s ankle looked tilted, which later revealed to be a dislocation and fractured fibula. The German midfielder screamed in agony as teammates and opponents alike ran to his aid and covered their faces. Everyone was visibly shaken by the severity of the injury.

Also Read: Jamal Musiala Injury Update: When Will he Return? Bayern Munich Reveal Extent of the Injury

Referee Anthony Taylor ended the first half moments later as Bayern Munich medical team rushed to the scene. Donnarumma, who initially walked away with the ball, later crouched down and appeared close to tears when he saw the extent of Musiala’s injury.

He eventually approached Bayern players at halftime. However, he did not immediately check on the 22-year-old after the injury. PSG players, including Achraf Hakimi and Desire Doue, later sent messages of support for Musiala as they wished him a speedy recovery.

Bayern Munich

Gianluigi Donnarumma

Jamal Musiala

Manuel Neuer

PSG

PSG vs Bayern Munich

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.