JAMAL MUSIALA has revealed he has been diagnosed with a “neurological dysfunction” which causes “absence seizures” after he collapsed for the second time in four days.
The Bayern Munich star, 23, went down during their friendly win over FC Heidenheim on Tuesday, just three days after a similar scare against RB Leipzig.
Musiala – who was played for England at youth level – made a recovery on both occasions and was walked off the pitch but there have been concerns over his physical condition.
Bayern chief Max Eberl said after the game that the club were “aware of his situation” and that he would speak out soon.
And the player has now broken his silence on the two episodes in a lengthy statement explaining his recent diagnosis.
But he assured fans he was “doing well” and that his condition was “temporary and easily treatable”.
He wrote on Instagram: “First things first – I’m doing well! I’m especially grateful for your messages and support!
“I understand that many of you are worried. I’d like to alleviate those concerns today and explain something.
“I’ve been diagnosed with temporary, brief, but easily treatable absence seizures, which are due to a neurological dysfunction.
“These can lead to the recent episodes, like the one against Leipzig or now in Heidenheim.
“I know they seem scary at first glance – but for me, they’re currently just part of my everyday life. I’m receiving excellent medical treatment and am very optimistic.
“FC Bayern and my family and friends are always by my side and supporting me on this journey.
“Importantly, there are no further health risks. In close consultation and regular communication with the experts, it was my personal wish to face this challenge and, with the clearance from the neurologists, to continue focusing on what helps me most in my recovery: simply living my daily life and pursuing my passion for playing football.
“I’ve taken responsibility for that. Overall, I have a very good feeling and I’m on the right track.
“What helps me most on this path is continuing to chase victories and titles with my team and your amazing support.
“I hope you can understand me better now.
“At the same time, I ask for your understanding that I would like to keep this matter within my closest circle of confidants, the club, and the experts. Thank you so much, J.”
Absence seizures are often short episodes that last between five and 15 seconds.
They are caused by a temporary neurological lapse where the brain pauses electric signals.
They can cause the sufferer to momentarily lose balance or pass out.
But they are treatable with medication and don’t cause symptoms like shaking and spasms as seen with more severe seizures.
Musiala was seen looking worse for wear in his first episode during the game against Leizpig on Saturday.
The player appeared disorientated and unsteady on his feet as he held his arms out and sunk towards the ground.
Thankfully, team-mates Ismael Saibari and Joshua Kimmich rushed over to catch him before he hit the deck.
