Medication tweak behind Musiala’s collapses, says Kompany
Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany has confirmed that the two on‑pitch collapses of Germany’s 23‑year‑old star Jamal Musiala were caused by a minor alteration to his medication, which triggered brief, treatable seizures during matches against RB Leipzig and Heidenheim. By TAMARA PRENN, 21 August 2026.
Medication change triggers collapses
Musiala, who disclosed this week that he is being treated for ‘neurological dysfunction’, experienced the first incident in sweltering heat against RB Leipzig. The condition can cause temporary, brief but easily treatable seizures, a fact Bayern were aware of before the World Cup. A slight tweak to his treatment plan was identified as the catalyst for both episodes.
Kompany said, ‘He made a slight change to his treatment, which caused some side effects,’ emphasizing that adjustments to medication are normal. He added that the initial shock occurred long ago and the club has not dwelled on it recently. Now Kompany has shared, with his player's permission, that Musiala was suffering side effects during the incidents.
Club and medical response
Ahead of Bayern’s German Supercup clash with Borussia Dortmund, Kompany confirmed Musiala will train individually rather than with the full squad as the team begins its Bundesliga title defence. Neurologists have given written clearance, allowing the club to sleep more soundly after confirming no risk to high‑performance sport. Bayern’s honorary president Uli Hoeness recalled the first collapse was visible to everyone and expressed his speechlessness at the recurrence.
Sporting director Max Eberl echoed Hoeness, stating the club has known about Musiala’s condition throughout the last season and that it has become part of everyday life. He pledged unconditional support for the player moving forward.
During the Heidenheim friendly, Harry Kane and Co gestured for teammates to form a protective ring around Musiala as he received treatment on the pitch. The Bayern players clustered around him, shielding his privacy while medical staff escorted him off.
Musiala posted a video explaining he suffers ‘absence seizures’, which can affect awareness and balance, but assured fans there is no further health risk. He expressed optimism, thanked the medical team and supporters, and affirmed his commitment to continue playing football.