Ahead of Germany's match against Ecuador, Musiala gave an exclusive interview to Sport Bild, discussing his role in the team and other topics.
At the 2022 World Cup, you were still a newcomer, playing as a carefree dribbler. Now you are seen as a leader, expected to lead the team to victory. How has your role changed?
My role is definitely different from four years ago. Of course, I still dribble, and I'm feeling better and better. But don't forget I'm coming back from an injury. The more I play and the more games I get, the better I feel with the ball. Playing is starting to be fun again. But it's true, I have more responsibilities for the team. I'm responsible for shooting, and I also have to help defensively. Winning the ball is fun too (laughs)!
Do you think a lot about your individual performance? Are you your own biggest critic?
Absolutely. I don't need external pressure because no one puts more pressure on me than I do myself. But I've learned over the years that I can't be too hard on myself. That only negatively affects your game. If I make a mistake and get discouraged, it doesn't help me. I try to stay relaxed and calm.
Have you set personal goals for the World Cup?
As I said, I don't think there's any point in putting extra pressure on myself. But my wish is definitely to score many goals. But if Havertz, Undav, or Wirtz score, I'm just as happy.
National coach Nagelsmann trusts you a lot. You worked together at Bayern before—is that an advantage?
Perhaps. Nagelsmann is an excellent coach who gives every player confidence. That's exactly the kind of trust I need. I also feel Kompany's trust at the club. This helps me immensely and makes me feel very good. I can play freely and confidently. I train hard to repay the coach's trust.
Your role is the playmaker, wearing the number 10 jersey. How do you feel about this important position?
I play confidently and with joy. I can only thank the team and the coaching staff because I know my tasks and can play in my preferred position. I always do my best—first and foremost for my teammates. I feel good on the field. This is certainly a different feeling than four years ago. I have learned a lot and grown.
How good does it feel to play with Wirtz again?
It's really fun. I think we combine well together. The same goes for Havertz, Sané, Felix Nmecha, and Pavlovic. The whole team is in good shape. No matter where I am on the field, I can combine with anyone. But it's true that Wirtz and I combine well and can also switch positions. It's really fun to have this ease and freedom on the field.
Besides you, there are five other Bayern players in the squad, plus Ulreich as a training goalkeeper. How important is this Bayern contingent for our chances of winning the title, and how much does it help you personally?
Such a team combination is definitely positive. But it's not just the Bayern players who have a good atmosphere; the whole team is great. We have real team spirit, no matter who is on the field. We have to maintain that, especially when stronger opponents come. Not every game will be as smooth as against Curaçao. So we have to stick together, everyone helps each other, and everyone gives 100% at all times.
In addition to the existing Bayern contingent, Beier might join soon. It's said that Bayern has already reached an agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt for his transfer. Have you talked to Beier about this?
No, it's ultimately his own decision. But you can see he has a high level. It's really fun to play with him. He's an excellent player, and I'm sure he'll gradually find his rhythm during the World Cup.
Has any team surprised you so far?
I didn't expect Spain to draw 0-0 with Cape Verde. That game showed that anything is possible at the World Cup. Senegal played well too, even though they lost to France.
Are you looking forward to potentially facing Spain to get revenge for being knocked out in the quarterfinals of the 2024 European Championship at home?
No, honestly, I haven't thought about that. I also don't know the knockout stage bracket. My focus is only on the next game. If we do have to play Spain, then bring it on. But I won't look forward to it for that reason.
You recently got caught in a public debate between Müller, Klopp, and Matthäus. Müller and Klopp argued for Undav to start instead of you, while Matthäus disagreed. What is your relationship with Undav?
I didn't notice this discussion—I don't follow these things. Anyway, I like Undav and we communicate well. We watch World Cup games or play cards together. We also have a good relationship in training. He has many strengths, which he proved when he came on as a substitute in the games against Curaçao and Ivory Coast. The team needs such players.
Will Undav let you taste his special super-spicy sauce? The national team chef "Schmausi" prepares separate meals for him.
I tried it once, but it wasn't as spicy as Undav's. That's not for me—I don't want to have stomach problems (laughs).
Your captain draws inspiration from books during World Cup breaks. Kimmich is reading Owen Eastwood's bestseller "Belonging". Do you have any reading material with you?
I actually flipped through Kimmich's book and wanted to borrow it. If he doesn't lend it, I can always find a way to get my hands on it (laughs). I brought my own old book by Tim Grover about Jordan and Kobe. But right now, I don't really need external influences. For me, it's best to relax, rest, and maybe do some breathing exercises.
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