Bayern Munich director claims 1 player from team is capable of being as decisive as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

Bayern Munich director Max Eberl has reserved lofty praise for youngster Jamal Musiala, likening his influence to that of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The Germany international was decisive for his side as they picked up a 4-2 win over Heidenheim in the Bundesliga on Saturday (December 7).

For most players born in the 21st century, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi remain the ultimate reference points due to their remarkable success in the game. Both men have shown great quality and longevity, and were able to affect games as they wished in their prime.

Eberl has placed Musiala in the same category as the pair due to his ability to grab a game by the scruff of its neck and influence it. The director made these comments to reporters after seeing the 21-year-old come off the bench against Heidenheim to lead his side to victory.

“I remember Messi at Barca and Cristiano at Real Madrid, who were decisive players in games," Eberl said. "Jamal is capable, we know that. These two [Messi and Cristiano] have won many Ballon d'Ors. Jamal hasn't won it yet, but he will do everything he could to make him do it."

Jamal Musiala, who has named Lionel Messi as his idol in football, came off the bench in the second half for Vincent Kompany's side against Heidenheim. He replaced Thomas Muller in the 51st minute and scored twice to take his tally to eight goals in 11 Bundesliga games this season.

Bayern Munich are keen on keeping the German midfielder, and are prepared to offer him a contract that will make him among the best earners in club history. They are keen for him to spend the best part of his career at the club, like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo did at Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively.

Former Premier League manager slams Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi FIFPro nomination

Former Premier League manager Rene Meulensteen has slammed the decision to include the veteran duo of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the shortlist for the 2024 FIFPro World XI. The pair were among 26 players to receive nominations for the award despite being on the books of clubs outside Europe.

A former Manchester United assistant manager, Meulensteen spoke with OLBG about how he feels with the nomination of the duo over Mohamed Salah. He pointed out that the Liverpool man is playing at a much higher level, and deserves to be on the shortlist.

"Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo beating Mohamed Salah to a nomination is ridiculous," Meulensteen said. "Messi and Ronaldo have had unbelievable careers but are playing in leagues that don’t have the same standard. Look at what Salah has been doing and isn’t even nominated? It’s an absolute disgrace. You have to question how those nominations are made."

Mohamed Salah has been in fine form for club and country, racking up 47 goal contributions between August 2023 and July 2024, the period for consideration of players. The Egyptian forward is locked in a contract standoff with Liverpool, but continues to be a key player for the Reds.