Adam Szalai: Bundesliga star reports after collapse

The football world can breathe a sigh of relief: Former Bundesliga professional Adam Szalai (36) has spoken out after his dramatic collapse in the Nations League game between the Netherlands and Hungary. “Thanks for all the messages, I’m fine,” the 36-year-old wrote shortly before midnight, with a red heart emoji. The Hungarian Football Association also shared the news via its social media channels.

The assistant coach of the Hungarian national team collapsed on the sidelines in the seventh minute of the game. Doctors rushed to the scene immediately while the players formed a screen. As Hungarian media reported, Szalai had to be resuscitated on site. After the game was interrupted for about twelve minutes, he was carried out of the stadium to the applause of the spectators.

The Hungarian association announced during the first half that Szalai was in a stable condition and had been taken to an Amsterdam hospital for further examination.

National coach Julian Nagelsmann (37) was also concerned about his former player after Germany’s 7-0 win against Bosnia-Herzegovina: “First of all, I hope he’s doing well. He’s a former player of mine, too with whom I have a very good connection,” said Nagelsmann on RTL.

Szalai, who played a total of 276 games in the Bundesliga for Mainz, Hoffenheim, Schalke and Hannover, only took up his new role as assistant coach of the Hungarian national team in October. He had previously appeared 86 times for his home country as a player and had also led the team onto the field as captain.

Hungary ultimately lost the game in Amsterdam 4-0, but the sporting result took a backseat due to the medical emergency. “Adam is no longer in danger, we wish him the best,” said Hungary national coach Marco Rossi (60) after the game. The next international match for the Hungarians is on Tuesday – then the German national team will be in Budapest.