Bayern Munich Injury Updates: Jamal Musiala ill, João Palhinha return delayed | OneFootball

Bayern Munich will kick off 2025 with a Bundesliga clash against Borussia Monchengladbach at the Borussia Park on 11th January. Even after a three week long winter break, Bayern’s squad remains depleted as several injured players are yet to reach full match fitness.

According to Kicker’s Frank Linkesch, João Palhinha is closing in on his return as he recovers from a adductor injury that he sustained in November last year. The defensive midfielder will miss the next few games but is expected to make his return on January 22nd against Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League.

Josip Stanišić has been sidelined since the start of the season but his return is now imminent. The Croatian full-back will miss the first game of the year against Monchengladbach but will likely be back in the squad in the following game against TSG Hoffenheim on January 15th.

Itō and Boey still far from match-fit

Hiroki Itō’s Bayern return was delayed as he had to undergo another surgery on his foot in November. The 25-year-old has made significant progress in his recovery and is now completing intensive running exercises at Sabener Strasse. His return to the first team is expected in February. The Japanese International hasn't played a single competitive game for Bayern since joining them at the start of this season.

Meanwhile, Sacha Boey has resumed running on the pitch for the first time since suffering an ankle injury last month. However, his return to full fitness remains some way off. The Frenchman’s time at Bayern has been riddled with injuries since his arriving from Galatasaray at the start of last year.

Jamal Musiala doubt against Gladbach

Jamal Musiala couldn’t participate in the recent test match against RB Salzburg because of a minor illness. His condition hasn’t bettered as the midfielder still hasn’t returned to training and is a doubt for the Bundesliga reopener against Borussia Monchengladbach.

Musiala ended 2024 in red-hot form with a goal and assist against RB Leipzig. His absence in a tricky away game against Monchengladbach could be a problem for Bayern who will miss his magic feet and creativity in unlocking defences.