'Seems excessive to me' - Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois comes to defence of Gianluigi Donnarumma after Manuel Neuer launches scathing attack on PSG star for role in Jamal Musiala horror injury

The German midfielder was stretchered off in the first half of Bayern's 2-0 Club World Cup quarter-final loss to PSG, following a collision with Donnarumma. Musiala was in immense pain as he twisted his ankle and the youngster's condition left the players on the pitch in great distress.

After the game, veteran Bayern goalkeeper Neuer did not hold back while criticising the PSG custodian as he called the Italian's challenge 'reckless'. Madrid's Courtois, however, defended the PSG star as he claimed that Donnarumma should not be blamed for Musiala's condition.

Speaking to reporters, the Belgian said: "Blaming Donnarumma for Musiala 's injury seems excessive to me. Goalkeepers go for the ball. Forwards don't hold back when they get in our way either. It's bad luck. It will hurt him more because he's on his team, but Donnarumma isn't to blame."

The 26-year-old will be back in action next Wednesday as the reigning European champions take on Real Madrid in the Club World Cup semi-final.