Following Collapses: Musiala’s Treatment Is Being Adjusted | OneFootball

Following Jamal Musiala’s latest absences, FC Bayern has announced an adjustment to his treatment. It is not known what specific measures are being taken for the 23-year-old. However, neurologist Prof. Christoph Kleinschnitz explains how a change in medication for absence epilepsy generally works.

Concerns about Jamal Musiala continue to preoccupy FC Bayern. After the star forward collapsed twice during a game within a few days, he went public about his health situation himself.

Musiala explained that he had been diagnosed with “temporary, brief, but easily treatable absence seizures.” At the same time, the German national team player emphasized that he was undergoing medical treatment and had received clearance from his doctors to continue playing soccer.

It is now known that Bayern, together with his treating physicians, is adjusting his treatment plan. Exactly what changes are being made has not been disclosed for reasons of medical privacy.

Neurologist Explains Possible Change in Medication

BILD spoke with Prof. Christoph Kleinschnitz, head of neurology at Essen University Hospital, about how a change in medication for absence epilepsy generally works. The physician spoke explicitly in general terms and did not comment on Musiala’s specific treatment.

“You must not abruptly discontinue treatment with antiepileptic drugs. This means the old medication must be gradually phased out while the dose of the new one is gradually increased,” Kleinschnitz explained.

Such a transition phase can have temporary effects: “During this transition phase, seizures may occur more frequently because the new medication has not yet taken full effect.”

It is not known whether Musiala is currently undergoing a medication change.

According to Kleinschnitz, there could be various reasons for such a switch. “The previous medication may no longer be effective, or the side effects may be too severe—such as dizziness, fatigue, or problems with concentration or memory. Weight gain is also possible.”

Musiala has been suffering from absence seizures for some time now.

Photo: IMAGO

It is particularly noteworthy that Musiala’s absences are not a new phenomenon. Sporting director Max Eberl recently revealed publicly that Bayern Munich has been aware of the issue since last season.

This comes as no surprise to Kleinschnitz. “No, it just shows that the condition has been well under control so far and that it’s possible to compete at the highest level even with it,” the neurologist explained.

The doctor also drew a possible connection to Musiala’s athletic development: “It also explains why Musiala hasn’t regained his former strength since his serious injury. I hope he’ll be able to do so again soon.”

However, this is merely Kleinschnitz’s assessment and not a confirmed medical explanation for Musiala’s athletic performance.

What is clear, however, is that Bayern is being particularly cautious with its star forward following the recent incidents. Musiala will not play in the Super Cup against Borussia Dortmund. When the 23-year-old will be able to return to the field will likely depend largely on the further course of his treatment and the assessment of the doctors treating him.