In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through the footballing community, Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala has broken his silence on the unexpected exit of a teammate—believed to be Ryan Gravenberch—who is reportedly close to joining Liverpool.
The young midfielder’s abrupt decision to leave the German giants, just a year after signing from Ajax, has stirred significant controversy within the Bayern camp.
Reports indicate that the Bayern dressing room has been deeply affected by this sudden move. Players and staff alike are said to be disheartened, viewing the transfer as both untimely and disloyal.
The mood within the team has noticeably shifted, with internal sources describing the atmosphere as tense and somber.
The player at the center of the controversy is widely assumed to be Gravenberch, although no official confirmation has been given. Having only arrived in the summer of 2024, he was seen as a central figure in Bayern’s midfield revamp.
His skill set was expected to complement that of Musiala, Joshua Kimmich, and Leon Goretzka. Yet, in a surprising twist, he is now on the verge of a move to Anfield after reportedly agreeing personal terms with Liverpool.
Musiala, speaking candidly to German outlet Kicker, did not hide his dismay. The 21-year-old referred to the transfer as “selfish and unfair,” expressing disappointment not only from his own perspective but also on behalf of the entire squad.
He revealed that even head coach Thomas Tuchel was taken aback by the decision, stating:
“Everyone in the dressing room is really upset about this move… this is really unfair, and honestly, I think FIFA should step in to look at how transfers like this are allowed to happen so easily.”
Musiala’s passionate remarks reflect broader frustrations within the sport about player loyalty and the increasing trend of short-term stints at top clubs.
Many feel that such swift exits undermine team-building efforts and weaken the spirit of long-term commitment.
Liverpool, meanwhile, see this transfer as a strategic move under their new manager Arne Slot. With departures like Fabinho and Thiago Alcântara, the club is actively restructuring its midfield.
Gravenberch’s dynamism, ball progression, and technical prowess fit the mold of what Slot envisions. The deal, rumored to be worth around £42 million, is said to be nearing completion.
Bayern coach Tuchel is reportedly frustrated with the timing of the move. Having counted on Gravenberch as part of his tactical plans for the upcoming season, he now finds himself needing to rework his midfield setup just weeks before pre-season begins.
Internally, the Bayern squad is said to be divided. While some players view the move as opportunistic and disloyal, others are more empathetic, recognizing the appeal of playing in the Premier League and under a new system at Liverpool.
Musiala’s call for FIFA to intervene in such cases has generated debate. While many fans echo his concerns about player loyalty, others argue that professionals should be allowed to make career decisions that best suit their growth—even if it involves early exits. FIFA has yet to respond publicly to Musiala’s appeal.
As the transfer inches closer to being finalized—with personal terms reportedly settled and medicals expected soon—Bayern will likely need to act swiftly to find a suitable replacement.
Speculation suggests that they may turn to targets like Manu Koné or Martin Zubimendi.
Reactions from Bayern supporters are mixed. Some back Musiala’s emotional honesty, while others accept that modern football operates as a business, and players must act in their own interest. One fan’s comment captured the sentiment well:
“We’ll move on, but it stings. When someone you invested in walks away so soon, it’s hard not to feel let down.”
Regardless of how the situation resolves, the episode has left an indelible mark on Bayern Munich, signaling deeper questions about modern transfer ethics, squad unity, and the emotional toll of football’s ever-accelerating business side.
