Lahm: Bellingham and Musiala are the Bundesliga's best of 2022

Former Germany captain Philipp Lahm has named Jude Bellingham and Jamal Musiala as his two standout players in the Bundesliga this year.

Bellingham's star has been on the rise in 2022 as he built on his performances for Borussia Dortmund by impressing for England at the World Cup in Qatar as well.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich youngster Musiala has also turned heads in a breakthrough season so far, as he has scored nine goals and provided seven assists in the Bundesliga.

Both men have caught the eye of Bayern's former skipper Lahm, who reckons they have represented the best of 2022.

"In a year like this, of course, there must be a bit of World Cup in the mix," Lahm told Bundesliga.com.

"I think, if there is one to choose, I'd have to say Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund, who has developed very well so far. He is a crucial player at BVB.

"Also, Jamal Musiala, who especially in 2022/23 so far has [been crucial] in almost all games for Bayern Munich. He also had three good games at the World Cup.

"I would say those are the [standout] players because others have also struggled a bit.

"When I think of Bayer Leverkusen, who played a very good second half of 2021/22, but then started to struggle in the new season, the balance just didn't seem right.

"Leipzig also experienced a few difficult games and weeks at the beginning of the current season.

"Of course, it has to be said that Christopher Nkunku, in particular, had a great year but unfortunately got injured towards the end and was therefore unable to travel to the World Cup."