Germany’s Joshua Kimmich Returns to Central Midfield for World Cup Qualifiers

Herzogenaurach, Germany — Joshua Kimmich, the Bayern Munich and German national team star, is set to return to central midfield for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovakia and Northern Ireland. The 30-year-old has played across various positions throughout his career but expressed satisfaction with this shift back to midfield.

“I’m playing in midfield at FC Bayern, I’m happy that I’ll be playing in midfield here as well,” Kimmich said at a recent press conference. He emphasized that playing in midfield allows him to better utilize his strengths and engage more effectively with his teammates.

Germany’s head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, has hinted at adjustments in the team’s formation, which includes Kimmich’s repositioning. “We’ll make some adjustments and have a different structure, both defensively and offensively,” Nagelsmann stated. He noted that Kimmich remains an unrivaled talent at right-back but will interpret his role differently for the national team.

The national team is keen to secure qualification for the World Cup, with Kimmich acknowledging the importance of these qualifier matches. “The most important thing is to qualify. You have to perform well and get good results,” he said, reflecting on the team’s recent disappointing performances in the Nations League.

Historically, Germany has an impressive qualifying record and has never lost a World Cup qualifier away from home. However, defender Jonathan Tah cautioned that the match against Slovakia, particularly, will be challenging. “They have a few players with international experience. It won’t be an easy game away from home,” Tah remarked.

Kimmich’s role in midfield aims to bolster the center of the field alongside potential partners like Angelo Stiller or Leon Goretzka. As the team prepares for its matches, there is optimism for a successful qualifying campaign to pave the way for next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Germany opens their campaign against Slovakia on September 4 before hosting Northern Ireland on September 7.