Joshua Kimmich’s position debate resurfaces amidst tactics inspired by Guardiola

Joshua Kimmich is no stranger to discussions about his optimal position on the football field.

Having initially gained prominence as a full-back in the German national team in 2016, the 28-year-old has since evolved into one of football’s most versatile and strategic midfielders. Once he secured his preferred midfield role, he openly expressed his satisfaction.

However, despite his undeniable achievements, the 79-time capped midfielder has consistently been the subject of debates regarding his effectiveness in that position.

As the 2014 World Cup champions prepare for friendly matches against Japan and France, Kimmich finds himself once again in the midst of a familiar debate, one he probably wishes to put to rest.

The current debate may have been ignited by Thomas Tuchel, who advocates for a “holding six” – a player primarily focused on defensive duties. While Kimmich views himself as a versatile midfielder capable of balancing offensive and defensive responsibilities, Bayern Munich’s coach appears to have a different perspective, as reported by Xinhua.

Rumors suggest a growing disconnect between the player and his coach. Influential figures at Bayern, Uli Hoeness and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, reportedly disapprove of Kimmich’s insistence on maintaining his midfield role.

This internal discord within Bayern has spilled over into the national team. Hansi Flick, the embattled coach of the German national team, recently tested Kimmich in a defensive role during training. This move is not entirely surprising, considering that Kimmich played as a full-back in Germany’s last group match against Costa Rica at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

In echoing the strategy from the World Cup in Qatar, Flick seems to be returning to tried-and-tested tactics, despite Kimmich’s standing as the Bundesliga’s top corner taker.

An alternative approach could involve adopting a strategy popularized by Manchester City’s coach, Pep Guardiola, who favors full-backs transitioning into midfielders when in possession.

Media outlets emphasize the mounting pressure on Flick, who has secured only four victories in the last 16 matches. The disappointments of the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups weigh heavily on the former Bayern coach.

With the 2024 UEFA European Championship just ten months away, speculations about potential successors are already circulating in the media. Names like Mathias Sammer, former Frankfurt coach Oliver Glasner, and former Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann are among the candidates being discussed.

German internationals, including Robin Gosens, acknowledge the need for players to step up and support their coach, recognizing the responsibility to improve the team’s performance. They express solidarity with Flick, who they believe is doing a commendable job.

-IANS