Joshua Kimmich, ex‑international, under pressure from former captains

Joshua Kimmich, former international, is in the spotlight as captain of the DFB‑team because doubts about his starting place are being voiced. While after appearances against the Netherlands (1:1) and Greece (0:1) he is no longer listed in Jürgen Klopp’s second squad, former national team captains express their concerns.

Voices of the former captains

Oliver Kahn explained in an RTL‑expert panel before the Nations‑League match that Kimmich feels he no longer has a starting place one hundred percent. He emphasized that competition in midfield is becoming stronger and a place is no longer guaranteed.

Lothar Matthäus, 65 years old, said: “If Kimmich delivers the performance, then he is of course set.” He also recalled Kimmich’s appearance in Amsterdam, where he was the best German outfield player for him.

Matthäus demands clear support from Klopp for Kimmich

Matthäus further pointed out that a stronger performance by Aleksandar Pavlović and Tom Bischof, as well as a possible decision by Jürgen Klopp to see Kimmich in that position, could make the situation more difficult for Kimmich.

On Sunday in Thessaloniki Kimmich is missing again, because after the first international matches he is no longer in Jürgen Klopp’s second squad. In Munich the DFB‑selection celebrated the 2:0 victory over Serbia with a newly formed midfield consisting of Pavlović, Bischof and Florian Wirtz.

Former captain Michael Ballack emphasized that Klopp’s decision does not weaken Kimmich, but added that other midfield actors could overtake him quickly.