As many had anticipated, Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich was named as the new captain for the German national team by head coach Julian Nagelsmann. Kimmich will be joined by Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger as vice-captain and Arsenal FC’s Kai Havertz (!?) as the third captain.
“The new captains are Joshua Kimmich at number one, Antonio Rüdiger and Kai Havertz as vice captains. I think we have a good mix when it comes to this role. I think we’ve chosen well. They are eager to take on their roles,” Nagelsmann said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “Four important players have retired, all of whom have a great history with the DFB and played a key role at the EUROs. We gave them the space they needed to think. You could also tell from the statements that they had thought about what was right. But I had very good discussions with them.
“First with Thomas (Müller), then with Manuel (Neuer) and İlkay (Gündoğan). It was not easy for the players. It was very transparent and emotional. I accept and understand the decision. But the door is never closed. If the three show outstanding performances at their clubs, they can always come back.”
(Editor’s Note: Interesting…)
The team’s new leadership council will also include Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Pascal Groß, Niclas Füllkrug and Marc-André ter Stegen — but, not Rüdiger or Havertz.
“We have deliberately decided to include one of the three captains in the team council — we have nominated four other players to the team council,” said Nagelsmann.
Looking for more chatter on Bayern Munich’s 2-0 victory over SC Freiburg in the Bundesliga, plus some additional thoughts on Julian Nagelsmann’s German national team selections? Great, then check our latest Bavarian Podcast Works Show on Patreon, Spotify, or below:
As always, we appreciate all the support!
