Musiala set targets to improve performances ahead of 2026 World Cup

With Germany having already secured qualifications for the Nations League quarter-finals, Germany star Jamal Musiala revealed his side must improve ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The midfielder said he remains focused on improving as a player after starring for Bayern Munich and Germany this season, with one eye on the 2026 World Cup. 

Musiala was on target in Bayern’s 1-0 win over St. Pauli in the Bundesliga on Saturday, netting his fifth goal of the campaign in just eight league appearances.

The 21-year-old has gathered 13 goal contributions (nine goals, four assists) in all competitions for Vincent Kompany’s side, with his impact on the side continuing to grow. 

Only Michael Olise (seven) and Harry Kane (16) have more goal involvements than Musiala (six) for Bayern in the Bundesliga this term. 

Musiala has also converted 89% of his big chances this season for Bayern in all competitions (8/9) – the best figure of all players from Europe’s five major leagues with at least five big chances in 2024-25.

He has impressed on the international stage too. The midfielder notched four goal involvements (one goal, three assists) in Germany’s 5-0 win over Hungary in September, becoming the youngest player to do so in a single game in the competition. 

After missing Germany’s last Nations League fixtures through injury, Musiala is keen to continue his progression for his country. 

Speaking in an interview, Musialasaid said the focus is to get better, keep putting in the work, and not look around too much as it is important to take steps forward.

“Last season, I did that, and maybe the goals and assists were missing a bit. I work on power and being fit game after game.

“I want to have as few injuries as possible to make as many matches as possible.

Germany takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina on Saturday before travelling to Budapest three days later to square off against Hungary. 

Julian Nagelsmann’s side have already qualified for the quarter-finals of the Nations League, sitting five points clear at the top of Group A3 with two games remaining. 

But Germany has struggled at major tournaments in recent years, falling in the quarter-finals at Euro 2024 to eventual champions Spain. 

They have also failed to get out of the group stages in the last two editions of the World Cup, though Musiala was confident about his side’s chances at the 2026 tournament, which takes place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

“The Euro was not perfect as we all had wanted, but we still see the possibilities that are there,” Musiala said.

“We have a year and a half until the World Cup, and we can take steps forward.

“Learn the lessons from the past two tournaments and hopefully play a good World Cup,” he added.