Analysis
Germany’s Tactical Shift: Kimmich’s Right-Back Revelation
updated on March 21, 2025, 1:01 p.m. ET
Joshua Kimmich captained Germany in their victory over Italy.
© Imago/Nicolo Campo
Joshua Kimmich prefers the midfield, but his performance at right-back against Italy raises a crucial question: Should Bayern Munich rethink his position?
Germany’s recent victory over Italy marked a notable moment,reminiscent of their last win on Italian soil back in 1986 – a time when the Berlin Wall still stood. That squad featured legends like Klaus Augenthaler and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Fast forward to March 20, 2025, and the German team, donning retro jerseys, replicated that feat. However, the spotlight wasn’t solely on veterans or hyped players like Leon Goretzka. Instead, it shone brightest on Joshua Kimmich, the nominal No. 6, who dominated the right flank for the entire match.
While Leon Goretzka grabbed headlines,
Goretzka in the Headlines, Kimmich on the Pitch
Table of Contents
- Goretzka in the Headlines, Kimmich on the Pitch
- A World-Class Right-Back on the Side?
- Kimmich vs. Raum: A Statistical Showdown
- Bayern’s Right-Back Dilemma: A Deeper Look
- SEO-Kind FAQ
- Why is Joshua Kimmich’s position at right-back a meaningful talking point?
- How did joshua Kimmich perform at right-back against Italy?
- What are the alternatives for right-back at Bayern Munich?
- What is Julian Nagelsmann’s opinion on Kimmich’s right-back performances?
- What are the key stats that support the argument for Kimmich at right-back?
- What are the long-term implications of Kimmich’s position for both Germany and Bayern Munich?
As 2016, Kimmich has been instrumental in nearly half (46%) of all German headed goals. His overall record of 24 goals in 98 international appearances is remarkable for a player often deployed in a defensive role.
These statistics underscore Kimmich’s immense value to the German national team.Observing his performance reveals his remarkable qualities.
Consider the contrast with David Raum, whose struggles on the left led coach
© nurphoto / imago / loris pinks
Looking at Bayern Munich, Kimmich’s club, the right-back position has been a persistent weak spot. Realistically, any fantasy football manager woudl prefer Kimmich at right-back over options like Konrad Laimer, Josip Stanisic, or Sacha Boey. It’s like having lebron james and needing him to play point guard – you no he can dominate there, even if it’s not his preferred role.
A World-Class Right-Back on the Side?
So, what to do with Kimmich, a player who embodies world-class talent in two positions but envisions himself primarily in central midfield?
“He is by far the best right-back we have.”
He is by far the best right-back we have,
states Nagelsmann about his captain. Bayern’s management likely shares this sentiment, albeit reluctantly, given their current options.
The renewed debate about Kimmich’s preferred position stems from Kimmich himself. While he thrives in the No. 6 role, his performances at right-back place him among the world’s elite in that position. This situation warrants further investigation: How does Kimmich’s versatility impact team dynamics, and what are the long-term implications for both Germany and bayern Munich?
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The data paints a compelling picture. Despite KimmichS asserted preference for central midfield – a position where his vision and passing range can orchestrate attacks – the numbers highlight his impact when deployed at right-back. Analyzing his performance in the Italy match alongside his broader career statistics allows us to evaluate his strategic value.
Kimmich vs. Raum: A Statistical Showdown
To illustrate the disparity, consider a comparison wiht David Raum, the left-back who struggled in the same game. While raum was ultimately substituted, Kimmich’s influence was sustained throughout. this contrast underscores Kimmich’s higher impact.
| Statistic | Joshua Kimmich (Right-Back) | David Raum (Left-Back) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Passes | 5 | 0 |
| Pass Completion Rate | 91.3% | 78.6% |
| Possession Won | 8 | 3 |
| Ground Duels Won | 6/7 | 3/6 |
| Crosses Completed | 4 | 1 |
This table succinctly illustrates Kimmich’s superiority in numerous key areas. His passing accuracy and number of key passes, crucial for creating goal-scoring opportunities, drastically outstrip Raum’s contributions.Defensively, Kimmich’s higher rate of possession won shows his ability to regain the ball and launch attacks from the right flank.
Bayern’s Right-Back Dilemma: A Deeper Look
Bayern Munich’s managerial staff faces a complex decision. They have a world-class player who excels in two key positions. While Kimmich in midfield offers control and distribution, deploying him at right-back solves a genuine problem.
Currently, the alternative options, such as Konrad Laimer, Josip Stanisic, and most recently, Sacha Boey, are, on paper, less effective, creating a tactical quandary for Bayern’s manager. This forces a hard discussion – sacrifice Kimmich’s midfield influence or compromise the defense.
Kimmich’s willingness to fulfill the role of right-back, despite his preference for midfield, speaks volumes about his professionalism and commitment to the team’s success. It also presents a clear assessment: he is the most logical choice for the position right now and should be utilized there, at least in situations of high importance.
SEO-Kind FAQ
This section addresses common questions to enhance search visibility and engagement.
Why is Joshua Kimmich’s position at right-back a meaningful talking point?
Kimmich is a world-class player who excels in both midfield and right-back positions. His exceptional performance at right-back for Germany against Italy has sparked a debate about whether Bayern Munich should consider him for the same role, which is needed and understaffed, potentially impacting Bayern’s tactical setup.
How did joshua Kimmich perform at right-back against Italy?
Kimmich played exceptionally well. He orchestrated both goals, completed 91.3% of his passes, and won possession eight times, showcasing his effectiveness in both attack and defense.
What are the alternatives for right-back at Bayern Munich?
Bayern Munich’s options for right-back include Konrad Laimer, Josip Stanisic, and Sacha boey. These players, while capable, are considered a downgrade when compared with Kimmich’s abilities in that position. It’s the equivalent of having a first-class seat, but choosing to fly in economy class.
What is Julian Nagelsmann’s opinion on Kimmich’s right-back performances?
National coach Julian Nagelsmann has stated that Kimmich is “by far the best right-back” available, highlighting his value to the team. This reflects his position as a player of high skill and dedication, even when filling a role he is not fully aligned with.
What are the key stats that support the argument for Kimmich at right-back?
Key stats include his 5 key passes, a 91.3% pass completion rate, 8 possessions won, 6/7 ground duel wins, and the creation of both goals in the match against italy. These comparisons with other players, such as david Raum, highlight his substantial impact on the field.
What are the long-term implications of Kimmich’s position for both Germany and Bayern Munich?
For Germany, it means a reliable and world-class right-back option. For Bayern Munich, it addresses a defensive weakness. Balancing these strengths will impact the team’s tactical flexibility and overall success.
