Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala’s Bundesliga Future in Question as WM Transfer Speculation Intensifies
June 10, 2024
German football legend Lothar Matthäus has reignited speculation about the future of Bayern Munich stars Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala, suggesting both players could leave the Bundesliga after the 2024 World Cup. The former Germany captain and record international, now an analyst for German broadcaster ARD, told reporters that the World Cup could serve as a “transfer market” for top German players, including Gnabry (28) and Musiala (21), who have both extended their contracts with Bayern through 2026.
Why the World Cup Could Be a Turning Point for Gnabry and Musiala
The speculation follows reports that both players have been linked to Premier League clubs, with Gnabry reportedly eyeing a return to Arsenal and Musiala drawing interest from Manchester United and Chelsea. According to Kicker, Bayern’s board has been advised to prepare for potential departures, particularly if the players perform strongly in Germany’s World Cup campaign.
Matthäus, who won the 1990 World Cup with West Germany and later managed clubs in the Bundesliga, told Der Spiegel that the tournament often serves as a catalyst for transfers. “Players who shine on the biggest stage often become more attractive to clubs looking for proven performers,” he said. “The World Cup is a chance for players to show their worth beyond club football.”
Contract Extensions vs. Transfer Rumors: What Do the Numbers Say?
Despite the speculation, both players have recently signed new deals with Bayern. Gnabry, who joined from Hoffenheim in 2017, extended his contract through June 2026 in March 2024, reportedly earning a salary of around €12 million per year. Musiala, Bayern’s homegrown talent, signed a new deal in January 2024 that could see him earn up to €20 million annually by the end of his contract.
However, transfer fees for both players have been a point of contention. Gnabry’s release clause was raised to €120 million in 2023, while Musiala’s was set at €180 million in 2022. Industry insiders suggest that clubs outside Germany may be willing to meet or exceed these figures if the players deliver standout performances in Qatar.
| Player | Current Contract End | Reported Salary (2024) | Release Clause (2024) | Potential Premier League Suitors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serge Gnabry | June 2026 | €12M | €120M | Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham |
| Jamal Musiala | June 2026 | Up to €20M (by contract end) | €180M | Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool |
How the World Cup Could Accelerate Their Departures
Germany’s campaign in Qatar begins on November 23, with their first match against Costa Rica at the Education City Stadium in Doha (UTC+3). Both Gnabry and Musiala are expected to be key players for Hansi Flick’s squad, with Musiala named as Germany’s youngest-ever World Cup participant at 19.
If Germany progresses beyond the group stage, the pressure on both players to perform could increase. According to DFB’s official selection policy, players who excel in major tournaments often see their market value rise, making them more attractive to clubs seeking proven performers. “The World Cup is the ultimate stage,” Matthäus said. “If a player delivers there, it’s a green light for clubs to make a move.”
For context, the last German player to leave the Bundesliga for the Premier League after a World Cup was Toni Kroos, who joined Real Madrid in 2014 after the 2014 tournament. However, the Premier League’s financial power and global appeal make it a more likely destination for top German talent today.
Bayern’s Stance: Will the Club Fight to Retain Them?
Bayern Munich has not publicly commented on the transfer rumors, but sources close to the club suggest that retaining both players remains a priority. “We have invested heavily in these players, and we want to see them reach their full potential in a Bayern jersey,” a club spokesperson told Bayern’s official website.
However, the club’s financial constraints—particularly following the €1.1 billion fine imposed by UEFA in 2023—may limit their ability to match offers from wealthier clubs. Analysts at Transfermarkt suggest that Bayern could explore co-investment deals or sell-on clauses to mitigate the loss of both players.
Musiala, in particular, has been a focal point for Bayern’s youth development strategy. His rise from the academy to the first team has been one of the most impressive in recent memory, and his departure could leave a significant void in the club’s long-term planning.
Premier League’s Growing Appeal for German Stars
The Premier League has become the primary destination for German outfield players in recent years. Since 2020, at least eight Bundesliga stars have joined Premier League clubs, including Leroy Sané (Bayern to Manchester United, 2023) and Jamal Musiala’s former teammate at Bayern, Kingsley Coman (now at Bayern after a stint at RB Leipzig).
For Gnabry, a return to Arsenal—where he spent two seasons (2017–2019)—would align with his club history and the Gunners’ reported interest in reinforcing their attack. Musiala, meanwhile, has been linked with Manchester United, where he could form a dynamic partnership with Marcus Rashford or Bruno Fernandes.
According to Sky Sports, Premier League clubs are increasingly targeting German players due to their technical quality and familiarity with high-pressure environments. “The Premier League offers a different challenge, and players like Gnabry and Musiala are exactly the kind of attackers we need,” a source at a top-six club told the outlet.
What Happens Next: Key Dates and Deadlines
The next major checkpoint will be Germany’s World Cup opener against Costa Rica on November 23 (UTC+3, 12:00 PM Doha time / 09:00 AM UTC). Performances in that match—and in subsequent games—will be closely scrutinized by both domestic and international clubs.
Transfer windows in Europe typically open in January 2025, with the Bundesliga’s winter break running from December 2024 to January 2025. If Gnabry or Musiala decide to leave, Bayern would likely need to initiate transfer negotiations before the January window to secure their departures.
For fans and analysts, the next few months will be critical. Will Gnabry and Musiala deliver in Qatar to justify a move? Or will Bayern’s renewed success in domestic competitions—including a potential Champions League title—convince them to stay?
Three Things to Watch
- World Cup Performances: Both players’ impact in Qatar will be the primary factor in transfer decisions. A strong tournament could accelerate their departures.
- Bayern’s Financial Strategy: The club’s ability to retain them may depend on co-investment deals or selling on clauses rather than outright transfers.
- Premier League Competition: Arsenal and Manchester United are the most likely suitors, but Chelsea and Tottenham remain in the mix for Gnabry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Could Gnabry and Musiala leave Bayern before the World Cup?
Unlikely. Both players have contracts through 2026, and Bayern would need to activate their release clauses early—a move that would require significant compensation. The World Cup is seen as the catalyst, not the cause.
What would it take for Bayern to retain them?
Bayern would need to offer significant salary increases, long-term project roles (e.g., captaincy for Musiala), or co-ownership deals to make staying financially and professionally appealing.
Are there other Bundesliga players at risk of leaving?
Yes. Players like Leroy Sané (Bayern), Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen), and Jamal Musiala’s teammate at Bayern, Niclas Füllkrug, have also been linked to Premier League moves post-World Cup.
The next few months will determine whether Serge Gnabry and Jamal Musiala become World Cup heroes—or whether their futures lie beyond the Bundesliga. For now, Bayern fans can only watch and wait, hoping their stars deliver in Qatar while the transfer market remains in limbo.
Follow Archysport for live updates on Germany’s World Cup campaign and the latest transfer developments. Will Bayern hold on, or will the Premier League strike again?
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