When it gets to the business end of the season, the games are getting tighter and their outcome less predictable, a special kind of footballer is required: the so-called difference maker. Jamal Musiala in particular personified this type of player for FC Bayern last season. It wasn't just with his title-winning goal in Cologne that the 20-year-old made the difference for the German serial champions. With the most goals and assists combined for FCB, he was crucial to the team over the whole season – and now that's been recognised. With around 46 percent of the votes, Musiala has been chosen by Bayern supporters as their Player of the Season.
"Thank you to all the fans who voted for me as Player of the Season. It's a great honour to be recognised in such a strong team," said Musiala. "I hope I can keep it up and bring you joy."
Musiala immortalised himself with the winning goal in the 2-1 victory at Köln - it was the goal that decided a crazy end to the title race.
The prodigious attack took another step forward last season, improving his personal best goals tally in the Bundesliga with 12. Across all competitions he contributed 16 goals and 13 assists, making him the team's top provider as well as the player with the most goal involvements. His fast-paced dribbling and dangerous attacking play were always capable of producing a moment of genius, which in the end made the difference for Bayern.
Musiala is on the shortlist for the prestigious Golden Boy award, which honours the best U21 player in Europe:
Matthijs de Ligt and Thomas Müller on the podium
Musiala finished ahead of Matthijs de Ligt (28.3%) and Thomas Müller (8.2%), whose no less impressive performances were rewarded by the Bayern fans with second and third place respectively.
Musiala doesn't have much time to savour the award, though. On Monday, the Reds ramp up their pre-season preparations with the Audi Summer Tour – and with that the race to be crowned 2023/24 Player of the Season is already open. Can Musiala defend his title, or will another player rise to the top? We can't wait to find out.
Musiala's goal in Cologne was also crowned Goal of the Season - enjoy it again here:
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