Bayern Munich’s honorary president recently raised questions about whether the club could reconsider its agreement with Musiala if the midfielder is no longer capable of delivering the performances originally expected when the contract was signed.
The 23-year-old has endured a difficult period involving injuries and health problems, which have disrupted his progress at the Allianz Arena. His situation has prompted speculation following Hoeness’ remarks, with Matthäus now questioning the logic behind placing the player’s agreement under scrutiny.
The former Germany captain addressed the issue in his column for Sky Sport Germany, suggesting that Bayern had accepted the terms when Musiala signed his contract extension and should not now question the agreement because circumstances have changed.
“I can understand Uli’s thinking, but we don't all know exactly what he meant by it. He has opened the door to speculation in all sorts of directions,” Matthäus wrote.
“FC Bayern agreed to the salary and the length of the contract when Musiala extended his contract. That is why the contract was signed.”
Matthäus also argued that if Bayern were to assess contracts according to a player’s current market value and contribution, the same approach would have to be applied to those who have exceeded expectations.
He pointed specifically to Michael Olise, whose value has risen significantly since arriving from Crystal Palace for a reported €50 million.
“If Hoeneß was referring to value for money, then Michael Olise’s salary in particular would have to be at least doubled, if not tripled, because his market value has risen from the transfer fee of €50 million paid for him to €150-200 million,” Matthäus said.
The former midfielder believes clubs and players both accept uncertainty when they sign long-term agreements. A footballer may improve dramatically after committing to a contract, while injuries or other circumstances can also affect their ability to perform.
“It is the risk of a club, as well as a player, that when a contract is signed, nobody knows where the journey will go. With Olise, the journey has been constantly upwards for the past year and a half. If Musiala earns too much because he is currently unavailable, then Olise or other Bayern players who are overperforming would be earning too little,” he added.
Musiala has experienced a particularly frustrating period after suffering a serious injury at the Club World Cup, followed by further physical problems and a neurological condition that affected his availability.
Despite those setbacks, his importance to Bayern remains clear. He has recorded 71 goals and 46 assists in 235 appearances for the club, establishing himself as one of their most influential attacking players.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany has previously expressed confidence that the club can manage Musiala’s condition, while the midfielder continues his recovery and attempts to return to his previous level.
The Bavarian club have started the season strongly, sitting top of the Bundesliga after nine matches. However, the public discussion surrounding Musiala’s contract has created an unwanted distraction, with Matthäus making clear that he believes the player should not be judged against an agreement Bayern themselves chose to offer.