Flick: Jamal Musiala reacted well after Ballon d'Or defeat
Germany coach Hansi Flick says Jamal Musiala handled the disappointment professionally and was focused on training after Harry Kane won the Ballon d'Or.
Hansi Flick spoke on October 31, 2026 about how Jamal Musiala handled the disappointment after the Ballon d'Or was awarded to Harry Kane. Many had expected — and Musiala himself had hoped — that the coveted individual prize would cap an outstanding year for the young attacker.
Flick: Musiala stayed focused and returned to training
Flick described the evening as a tough one for Musiala but said the reaction was positive. The Germany coach highlighted the forward's mindset and immediate return to work at the team training base.
“We are proud of Jamal because he reacted really well and I see that he is focused on training. That is the reaction of a champion. I am happy that he is on his path and that he has such a mentality, which is extremely important for the whole team,” the German coach added.
The Ballon d'Or voting placed Musiala third in the final count, behind Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé. Flick did not dispute the outcome.
“In the end, Harry deserved the award too,” Flick said.
Flick’s public praise frames Musiala’s reaction as an example of maturity: a momentary setback followed by renewed focus on collective preparation rather than personal disappointment.
Photo: press material from the event
