Following the injury sustained by Jamal Musiala, Manuel Neuer criticized Gianluigi Donnarumma for his involvement in the collision. However, the Italy national team captain insists that harming the Bayern Munich star was “never” his intention.
Musiala is expected to be sidelined for at least five months after suffering a severe injury during a Club World Cup match against PSG, resulting from a collision with Donnarumma.
Neuer specifically criticized the Italian keeper, implying that he was prepared to accept the risk of injuring his opponent during the play.
Donnarumma Denies Intent to Injure Musiala
Gigio shared his perspective in a brief statement to Gazzetta: “I am shaken by what happened. It was never my intention to injure Musiala.”
Donnarumma`s agent, Enzo Raiola, also commented on the incident: “It`s a matter of split seconds. It only takes a moment for a save to turn into a foul. Gigio got to the ball first, and at that point, he couldn`t avoid the collision anymore,” he stated.
Raiola added: “It`s unfair to suggest he intended to hurt Musiala. He wishes Jamal a speedy recovery and hopes to see him return stronger than ever.”
Neuer further argued that Donnarumma`s decision to walk away from Musiala immediately after the collision was wrong, suggesting a lack of concern for the injured player.
Donnarumma Contacted Agent Immediately After Incident
“He didn`t want to act as if nothing had happened. Gigio is a very sensitive person,” Raiola continued.
“He couldn`t bear to stay there and preferred to step aside so the medical staff could provide Musiala with the best possible care. Once back in the changing room, he even turned on his phone – something he usually only does after the game, having switched it off an hour before kick-off to focus. This time, he texted me to express how shaken he was and to reiterate that it wasn`t intentional.”
Raiola concluded: “Honestly, I understand Neuer`s perspective. As Courtois mentioned, it`s natural for a player to defend their teammate.”
“He is also correct in saying that different reactions are possible. Everyone is different and reacts in their own way. Just in December, Gigio himself nearly lost an eye in a collision with a Monaco player. Even Neuer, back in 2014 during an international match, struck Higuain with his fists when coming off his line. Neuer later apologized, admitting he was prioritizing avoiding danger for his team, even while knowing he risked injuring his opponent.”
Meanwhile, Donnarumma`s club, PSG, has advanced to the Club World Cup semi-finals and is set to play Real Madrid on July 9.
This season, Donnarumma has been part of the PSG squad that won the treble, including the Champions League title.
