From Gerd Müller to Benjamin Pavard: The Bundesliga’s Legacy at the World Cup
The Bundesliga has a storied tradition of producing players who shine on the global stage, from iconic figures like Gerd Müller to modern sensations such as Benjamin Pavard. As the FIFA World Cup approaches, one player, Joshua Kimmich, stands poised to potentially etch his name among these greats.
Player Profile:
- Name: Joshua Kimmich
- Club: Bayern Munich
- Nation: Germany
- International Debut: May 29, 2016
- Caps: 108
At just 28 years old, Kimmich remains as vibrant and agile as ever in Bayern Munich’s midfield. Remarkably, he has amassed 108 international caps—placing him 10th on Germany’s all-time list, just one behind Jürgen Klinsmann. If all goes well for Julian Nagelsmann’s squad, Kimmich could soon surpass legends like Philipp Lahm (113) and Toni Kroos (114).
Now, while his role may shift to right-back—the very position where he first made waves at Bayern—Kimmich’s influence on the pitch is undeniable as he orchestrates play for both club and country.
The Making of a Star
Kimmich’s journey began in the VfB Stuttgart academy, where he forged lasting friendships with fellow German internationals Serge Gnabry and Timo Werner. His senior debut came at RB Leipzig in the 3. Liga during the club’s early ascent in German football. Two years later, Bayern Munich secured his talents just as Leipzig was securing promotion to the Bundesliga.
Kimmich’s initial foray into first-team football was fraught with challenges; Pep Guardiola famously chastised him during a rare appearance as a center-back. Yet it was on the right flank where Kimmich truly flourished, culminating in his selection as the UEFA Champions League Defender of the Season in 2019/20.
With Thiago Alcântara departing for Liverpool after a remarkable campaign, Kimmich embraced the opportunity to succeed the Spanish maestro in Bayern’s central midfield. Since then, he has not only grown as a player but also emerged as a pivotal figure in the locker room. With 22 trophies earned over nearly 500 appearances, Kimmich now captains both Bayern and Germany, especially in the absence of stalwarts like Manuel Neuer.
A Multifaceted Role
Kimmich’s versatility extends to tactical flexibility; he previously shone as a right-back for Germany during their run to the UEFA Euro 2016 semi-finals. Recently, when asked if he would remain in this role amid his responsibilities at Bayern, Nagelsmann’s response was definitive: “Yes, that’s how it will stay.”
With Felix Nmecha sidelined due to injury, Kimmich’s ability to pivot between positions will be crucial for Germany. This presents an intriguing tactical dilemma for Nagelsmann—after all, Kimmich is a versatile asset, excelling at multiple roles on the field.
As Germany prepares to face off against formidable opponents such as Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ecuador in Group E, one thing is clear: the competition has been put on notice. Joshua Kimmich, who embodies the spirit and skill of the Bundesliga, is ready to lead Germany toward glory this summer.
