Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich has come under a lot of pressure lately, labeled as both the problem in Bayern Munich’s midfield as well as the face of Germany’s failures in recent high profile tournaments, a label not remedied by one good European Championship this year.
Amid all this pressure a narrative has developed that Kimmich is not a good leading figure for either club or country, too wild and hotheaded to truly lead in moments of pressure. Considering that Kimmich is in the leadership council at Bayern and recently became the captain for Germany, perhaps his peers do not believe that narrative.
Among the peers that believe Kimmich to be a great captain is Aleksandar Pavlović. Speaking to Ransport, as captured by @iMiaSanMia, the Bayern and Germany newbie admitted that he assumed Kimmich would get the position: “I assumed it would be Jo. And that’s how it turned out. I’m very happy for him. He’s just a great guy and a fantastic leader.”
But why? Why does Pavlovic think he is such a fantastic leader? “He just has this very important mentality of always wanting to win. He also communicates well. If young players have questions, they can always come to him. Jo always tries to help.”
One can see the faith Pavlović has in Kimmich, one reflected by the peers that look up to him as captain. Perhaps the public perception of Kimmich will never change, but it looks as if the one of his peers won’t either.
Looking for more thoughts and analysis on the current state of Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany? What about four key storylines to follow after international break? Or…what about why Jamal Musiala snubbing by the Ballon d’Or committee might create some longer-term issues for the Bavarians? Great, then we have you covered with this latest edition of the Bavarian Podcast Works — Weekend Warm-up Show! You can get the podcast on Patreon, Spotify, or below:
