Luis Enrique defends Gianluigi Donnarumma over Jamal Musiala injury and says PSG goalkeeper has been in touch with Bayern Munich star

Donnarumma was the subject of harsh criticism and was held responsible for the horrific fractured fibula and ankle injury Musiala suffered during the Club World Cup quarter-final. The PSG boss clarified that the goalkeeper was "even more upset at the time" the incident took place, and has kept in touch with the Bayern Munich star.

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl blasted the Italian after the match last weekend, claiming that he "wasn't being considerate" while attempting to win the ball in a challenge with Musiala. The Bavarians' goalkeeper Manuel Neuer added on to the criticism and held Donnarumma responsible for Musiala's injury.

Donnarumma, for his part, has already spoken in the aftermath of the incident, expressing his regret and stating that he was "very shocked" about whatever happened. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois sided with the Italy national team captain, saying blaming him is "excessive".

Now, Luis Enrique has shed light on the episode and came to the defence of his player.

Speaking to reporters in the early hours of Wednesday, Luis Enrique said: "I think all of us who know Gigi know how kind he is. Football is a sport where there are always injuries, serious injuries that are part of the football process.

"There was no bad intention, you can see that clearly. Even how all the players experience those moments. Nothing more. I'm not going to weigh in on the statements of another team-mate or player because that's not my job. But Gigi is fine. He was upset, even more upset at the time. I think he's already been in contact with Musiala, to whom we all wish a speedy recovery."

Donnarumma will feature in PSG's upcoming clash, a Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid at New York's MetLife Stadium on Wednesday evening. Meanwhile, Musiala underwent successful surgery on his ankle, with Bayern announcing that the 22-year-old will remain out of actions for the next four to five months. It is unlikely, then, that the attacking midfielder will recover before 2026.