Jamal Musiala’s recent performances have left Chelsea fans lamenting another missed opportunity. Musiala, who spent eight years at Chelsea’s Cobham academy from 2011 to 2019, moved to Bayern Munich for just €200,000 (£170,000). Now 21, the Germany international has scored in consecutive EURO 2024 matches, contributing to a 5-1 win over Scotland and a 2-0 win over Hungary. His success isn’t surprising, considering he scored ten goals and provided six assists in 24 Bundesliga games last season.
Chelsea transfer news has shifted focus to Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, according to Fabrizio Romano via Football Transfers. Despite Chelsea’s abundance of wingers, they maintain an interest in the Georgian star, who is valued at over €100 million (£84 million) by Napoli. However, Chelsea’s lack of Champions League football might complicate any potential deal.
Comparing Kvaratskhelia to Musiala, both have impressive stats. Kvaratskhelia mainly played on the left in 44 of his 45 games for Napoli last season, with one game behind the striker. Musiala, on the other hand, has shown more versatility, playing as an attacking midfielder, on the left, and on the right for Bayern Munich. In EURO 2024, he has started both games on the left, roaming freely and finding space between the lines.
In terms of goals and assists, both players achieved 20 contributions in their respective campaigns. Kvaratskhelia scored 11 goals and provided nine assists in 45 appearances, while Musiala scored 12 goals and provided eight assists in 38 appearances. Musiala’s higher impact rate could be attributed to playing in a stronger Bayern team, which includes Bundesliga top scorer Harry Kane, compared to Napoli’s struggles, finishing tenth in Serie A.
Looking at their data, both are exceptional dribblers. Kvaratskhelia completes 3.44 successful take-ons per 90 minutes and makes 6.24 progressive carries per 90. Musiala slightly outperforms him in take-ons with 4.07 per 90 but is a bit behind in progressive carries, posting 5.1 per 90. Both also generate over five shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, with Kvaratskhelia at 5.21 and Musiala at 5.03.
Their ability to take on defenders and create goal-scoring opportunities makes them valuable assets. If Chelsea can persuade Kvaratskhelia to join, he would be an excellent addition, bringing similar qualities to Musiala’s to the team.
