MUNICH & LONDON – Mathys Tel, the young French forward currently with Tottenham Hotspur, revealed that it was the relentless work ethic and demanding standards of Bayern Munich captain Joshua Kimmich that made the biggest impact on him during his time in Germany. Tel described Kimmich’s approach as “very military” and credited the German international with instilling a sense of seriousness and professionalism that shaped his early career.
The 20-year-aged Tel, who moved to Tottenham permanently last summer for a reported €35 million after a loan spell, shared his experience in a recent interview on the French YouTube show “Zack en roue libre.” He recounted a specific incident during one of his first training sessions with Bayern, illustrating the high expectations Kimmich sets for himself and his teammates.
“The one who impressed me the most was Kimmich at Bayern,” Tel explained. “From the very first day, he put pressure on me regarding the mentality I needed to have. He told me, ‘Make the pass seriously!’ After that, I can tell you, I did it seriously.”
Tel’s anecdote highlights a culture of intense focus and dedication within Bayern Munich’s training environment. It wasn’t a complex tactical instruction, but rather a demand for full commitment even during routine drills that resonated with the young player. This emphasis on detail and unwavering focus, Tel said, is what sets Kimmich apart and embodies the competitive spirit expected at one of Europe’s most successful clubs.
The comparison to a “soldier” underscores the disciplined and uncompromising nature of Kimmich’s approach. Tel wasn’t suggesting literal military training, but rather a level of dedication and mental fortitude typically associated with professional soldiers. It’s a testament to Kimmich’s leadership and the standards he upholds, even in seemingly minor training exercises.
This revelation comes as Kimmich continues to be a pivotal figure for both Bayern Munich and the German national team. Known for his versatility, tactical intelligence, and tireless energy, Kimmich has established himself as one of the world’s leading midfielders. His influence extends beyond his on-field performances, as evidenced by the impact he had on a young player like Tel.
Tel’s time at Bayern, while showing promise with 10 goals in 40 appearances during the 2023/24 season, ultimately saw him move to Tottenham in search of more consistent playing time. He has found opportunities in North London, scoring three goals in 25 appearances for Spurs this season. However, the lessons learned from Kimmich clearly left a lasting impression, shaping his professional outlook and work ethic.
The story offers a glimpse into the inner workings of a top-tier football club and the importance of leadership, and mentality. While technical skill is paramount, the ability to instill a winning mindset and demand the best from oneself and teammates is often the difference between success and failure. Kimmich, according to Tel, exemplifies this crucial quality.
Tel’s experience also speaks to the challenges young players face when transitioning to a new club and culture. The immediate demand for professionalism from Kimmich served as a wake-up call, forcing Tel to quickly adapt to the high standards expected at Bayern Munich. It’s a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough. a strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit of improvement are essential for thriving at the highest level.
Tottenham Hotspur will look to build on their recent form as they continue their Premier League campaign. Mathys Tel will undoubtedly carry the lessons learned from Joshua Kimmich with him, striving to bring the same level of dedication and intensity to his performances in England. The next match for Tottenham is against Newcastle United on March 16th at St. James’ Park (3:00 PM GMT/ 10:00 AM EST).
What are your thoughts on Kimmich’s leadership? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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