Germany legend Lahm says Bellingham and Musiala were outstanding in 2022
For Lahm, the duo are the young player to watch out for in 2023
Bayern Munich and Germany legend Philipp Lahm has singled out Jude Bellingham and Jamal Musiala in his review of 2022 with bundesliga.com...
Lahm said " Picking outstanding players is a difficult to one. In a year like this, of course, there must be a bit of World Cup in the mix. I think, if there is one to choose, I'd have to say Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund, who has developed very well so far. He is a crucial player at BVB.
"Also, Jamal Musiala, who especially in 2022/23 so far has [been crucial] in almost all games for Bayern Munich. He also had three good games at the World Cup.
"I would say those are the [standout] players because others have also struggled a bit. When I think of Bayer Leverkusen, who played a very good second half of 2021/22, but then started to struggle in the new season, the balance just didn't seem right. Leipzig also experienced a few difficult games and weeks at the beginning of the current season. Of course, it has to be said that Christopher Nkunku, in particular, had a great year but unfortunately got injured towards the end and was therefore unable to travel to the World Cup."
And for Lahm the duo are the young player to watch out for in 2023.
"I can't offer any insider tips; my picks are Musiala and Bellingham for this as well. They became established Bundesliga players over the past year. They are still developing so there is still more for us to see from them in 2023. I'm curious to see how they continue and how they find their place on the pitch and within their teams.
"However, I would add two more players to the list. The first is Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, one of the best defenders in 2022. He just played a great World Cup for Croatia and has developed into a crucial player at Leipzig. At a very young age, he is putting in great performances as a central defender. I believe that he has really made his breakthrough this year, especially at the World Cup.
"Another young player to watch will be Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz. He was able to establish himself in the league just as quickly as Bellingham and Musiala, but was set back by injury. I can't wait to see him back, especially given that he is such an important player for Leverkusen. I hope he can continue where he left off and show his great talent."
