Matthäus demands clear support from Klopp for Kimmich
Former World Cup winner Lothar Matthäus criticises the ongoing discussion about DFB captain Joshua Kimmich and makes a clear demand of national team coach Jürgen Klopp. In his Sky column he writes: “Kimmich leads as captain with his experience – and especially with his performance. I really don’t know why anyone is debating Kimmich.”
Matthäus demands a clear line
Matthäus has no understanding for Kimmich being repeatedly questioned despite his experience. He emphasises that the debate about the captain is unnecessary and demands a clear commitment to the player from Jürgen Klopp. The former record national player sees Kimmich as an indispensable building block for FC Bayern and the national team.
In the column Matthäus further explains that Kimmich, as a 31‑year‑old midfield strategist, convinces not only with his experience but especially with his performance. He points to Kimmich’s appearances in Jürgen Klopp’s 4‑3‑5 system, where he shone as a lone number six against the Netherlands and was described by Klopp as “the best German player”.
Against Greece, however, Kimmich delivered an unlucky performance that led to a defeat. Despite the legitimate desire to remain in the squad as captain, he had to leave the team following Klopp’s initial squad plan. Matthäus sees this as a signal that mere presence is not enough.
Klopp’s handling of the controversy
Instead of strengthening Kimmich, Jürgen Klopp has fanned the debate with flippant remarks. He said: “I can tell Jo: the more you ask, the less likely you get what you want.” Matthäus criticises this attitude as counterproductive.
With Alexander Pavlovic in the Kimmich role as a deep‑lying six as well as Tom Bischof and Florian Wirtz in the half‑spaces, the DFB team appeared considerably more attractive against Serbia and Greece. Matthäus highlights Kimmich’s improved chipped balls, which he describes as a threat in attack.
The former record player also draws a historical comparison to Bastian Schweinsteiger. While Schweinsteiger had 180 ball contacts in midfield, Kimmich’s style of play is more versatile, as he operates not only laterally but also dangerously forward. Nevertheless, Matthäus warns that Kimmich has no free pass and must prove himself like any other player.
Matthäus also cites the non‑nominated fan favourite Deniz Undav as an example of missing depth. He stresses that the performance principle applies to everyone and that Aleksandar Pavlovic from FC Bayern is a serious challenger for Kimmich.
In conclusion, Matthäus demands that Jürgen Klopp find a stable core of 15 to 17 players before the next international match window in mid‑November, on whom he can rely. This will be followed by the away match against Serbia and the home match against the Netherlands as part of the Nations League group phase.