Lahm Advocates for Kimmich’s Midfield Role Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm has publicly called for Joshua Kimmich to be repositioned to the midfield ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to multiple German media outlets. The suggestion comes amid ongoing discussions about the German national team’s tactical setup under head coach Hans-Dieter Flick, with Lahm emphasizing the need for flexibility in the squad’s structure.

The debate centers on Kimmich’s versatility, as the 27-year-old has primarily played as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the German national team. However, recent performances have sparked conversations about his potential to thrive in a more advanced role, a move that could align with Flick’s broader strategic goals.

What is the Current Debate About?

According to reports from Sport1 and Bild, Lahm has expressed confidence in Kimmich’s ability to adapt to a midfield position. “Joshua has the technical skills and tactical intelligence to thrive in the center,” Lahm stated in a recent interview. “It’s about maximizing his strengths and giving the team more options.”

The discussion is not limited to Lahm. Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Hasan Salihamidžić, has also weighed in, noting that Kimmich’s role could evolve based on the team’s needs. “We’re always looking at how to best utilize our players,” Salihamidžić said in a press conference. “Joshua’s adaptability is a key asset.”

Kimmich himself has not publicly commented on the proposal, but his recent performances suggest he is open to the idea. In Bayern’s 4-1 win against Borussia Dortmund in September 2023, Kimmich showcased his passing accuracy and vision, completing 92% of his passes and creating three key chances. His ability to transition from defense to attack has drawn praise from analysts.

How Does This Affect the 2026 World Cup Plans?

The potential repositioning of Kimmich could have significant implications for Germany’s 2026 World Cup campaign. Flick has been experimenting with different formations, including a 4-2-3-1 and a 3-4-3, to find the most effective setup. A midfield role for Kimmich could provide greater flexibility, allowing the team to adjust to different opponents and in-game scenarios.

Historically, Germany has relied on a strong defensive core, with players like Jérôme Boateng and Mats Hummels forming the backbone of the backline. However, the 2026 tournament will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with varying playing conditions that may favor a more dynamic approach.

Analysts at Football Italia have noted that Kimmich’s versatility could be a key factor in Germany’s success. “If he can transition smoothly to midfield, it would give Flick more options,” said journalist Luca Marchetti. “It’s about balancing defense and attack, and Kimmich has the qualities to do both.”

What Are the Tactical Implications?

Repositioning Kimmich to midfield would require adjustments in both defense and attack. Defensively, Germany would need to find a reliable partner for the remaining center-back, potentially turning to players like Antonio Rüdiger or Niklas Süle. Offensively, Kimmich’s presence in the midfield could create more overloads in the center, allowing wingers like Thomas Müller or Serge Gnabry to cut inside.

This shift could also impact the team’s midfield trio. If Kimmich moves to the center, the role of players like Leon Goretzka or Jamal Musiala would need to be redefined. Goretzka, who has primarily played as a central midfielder, might be shifted to a deeper role, while Musiala could be utilized as a more attacking option.

Defensively, the team would rely more on its fullbacks to provide width. Players like Lukas Kudelka or David Raum would need to maintain their high defensive contributions while also supporting the attack. This approach has been successful in recent Bundesliga campaigns, where Bayern Munich has balanced defensive solidity with attacking flair.

What Are the Challenges?

Despite the potential benefits, there are challenges to consider. Kimmich’s primary role as a defender has been crucial to Bayern Munich’s success, particularly in tight matches. Moving him to midfield could leave a gap in the backline, especially if injuries or suspensions affect the center-back options.

Another concern is the physical demands of a midfield role. Midfielders often cover more ground and need to maintain high levels of stamina throughout the match. Kimmich’s fitness and workload management will be critical to ensuring he can handle the increased responsibilities.

Additionally, the German Football Association (DFB) will need to evaluate how this change aligns with the team’s long-term strategy. While the 2026 World Cup is the immediate focus, the DFB must also consider the 2024 European Championship and the 2022 World Cup, where Germany’s performance has been inconsistent.