As Bayern Munich's pursuit of Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon heats up, a fascinating tactical question is emerging for Vincent Kompany: if the deal falls through, should Jamal Musiala be moved back to the wing next season?
On the surface, the logic is compelling. Bayern's current wing depth behind Luis Díaz and Serge Gnabry is thin, and with Lennart Karl returning to anchor the No. 10 role, the attacking midfield position suddenly looks crowded. Musiala remains the club's most dynamic dribbler and arguably its best one-on-one attacker. Stationing him on the flank would give Bayern a player who can dismantle defensive structures without relying on perfect buildup play—a weapon any top side craves.
There's also a practical roster consideration. Bayern's attacking midfield options are far deeper than their wing corps right now. If Gordon doesn't arrive, the club may need Musiala's creativity wide more than they need him permanently in the middle. Modern elite attacks thrive on fluidity, and Musiala's versatility could be a tactical trump card.
However, the counterargument is equally strong—especially regarding any positional promises made during Musiala's recent contract negotiations. Rumors suggest part of his agreement hinged on being the team's primary attacking midfielder. Over the past two seasons, Musiala has blossomed in that central role, refining his ability to receive between the lines, combine in tight spaces, and dictate attacking tempo. Moving him wide would impose a heavier physical burden: more tracking back, more sprints, and more isolation battles against defenders.
The ideal solution may be flexibility rather than a permanent switch. Bayern could start Musiala centrally in some matches and shift him wide based on opponent, injuries, or game state. But if the Gordon deal falls through and no other top winger arrives, that tactical option could quickly become a necessity.
Would you move Musiala back to the wing next season, or keep him in the middle no matter what? The answer could shape Bayern's attacking identity for years to come.