Mathew Collins, son of music icon Phil Collins and half-brother to actress Lily Collins, has signed a one-year contract with 1860 Munich, the former Bundesliga champions. The 21-year-old midfielder joins the German club, which was recently relegated to the fourth tier of German football.
Collins, born in Switzerland, previously played in the youth system at Hannover 96 and had stints with WSG Tirol in Austria and Austria Salzburg in the second tier. He made four first-team appearances for Austria Salzburg last season before his departure at the end of the campaign. His father, Phil Collins, has previously spoken about his son's dedication to football, stating that Mathew loves the sport even more than music and is determined to turn professional.
IMAGE3 Mathew Collins has signed for former German champions 1860 Munich in the fourth tier
1860 Munich, a club that was a founding member of the Bundesliga and won the German title in 1966, has faced financial difficulties and administrative setbacks, leading to their current position in the fourth tier. The club failed to secure a license for the third division, despite finishing eighth in the 3. Liga last term.
Despite playing in the lower leagues, Collins could potentially face England captain Harry Kane if 1860 Munich is drawn against local rivals Bayern Munich in the German Cup.
IMAGE2 Mathew had shared a photo with his father after he had watched one of his matches for Austria Salzburg last season
Mathew's half-sister, Lily Collins, known for her role in the series "Emily in Paris," expressed her pride in his move via social media, calling it "Sooooo exciting!"
IMAGE4 Mathew's half-sister Lily, the star of Emily in Paris, said she 'couldn't be prouder' following his move
This move comes after a period of significant personal events for the Collins family. Phil Collins recently revealed that he had been in a critical condition in April 2024, requiring his children, including Mathew and Lily, to be summoned to his bedside for what he described as a potential 'do not resuscitate' situation. He has since recovered but continues to manage several health issues.