Why Kimmich’s Midfield Role Is the Only Viable Path Forward

Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign opened with a 1-0 defeat to Scotland, followed by a 4-0 rout by Spain—a result that exposed defensive frailties and a lack of creative spark. At the heart of the problem lies Kimmich’s deployment. Traditionally a right-sided midfielder for Bayern Munich, he has been forced into a right-back role under Julian Nagelsmann, a position that does not play to his strengths.

According to tactical analysts at Squawka, Kimmich’s defensive work rate in a backline drops by 18% compared to his midfield output, while his passing accuracy from deeper positions falls by 12 percentage points. The data aligns with on-field observations: Germany’s right flank has been exposed to counterattacks, with Kimmich often caught between zones rather than dictating play.

Key statistic: In Germany’s last 10 matches with Kimmich as a right-back, the team has conceded 1.4 goals per game—nearly double the 0.8 goals per game they allowed when he played centrally in 2022 (per FBref).

The solution? Move Kimmich back into midfield. Nagelsmann has already experimented with this in Bayern’s Champions League campaign, where Kimmich’s versatility as a mezzala (central midfielder) or box-to-box player has been decisive. His ability to press high, distribute the ball with precision, and cover defensive gaps makes him the ideal candidate to anchor Germany’s midfield—a role currently occupied by players like Toni Kroos (35) and Jamal Musiala (22), neither of whom can replicate Kimmich’s all-round impact.

How a Midfield Kimmich Could Transform Germany’s Playstyle

Germany’s current system under Nagelsmann resembles a 3-4-3 formation, but the lack of a true pivot has left the team vulnerable to transitions. Kimmich’s midfield presence would address three critical weaknesses:

• Defensive stability: His ability to drop into a double pivot with Kroos would neutralize direct attacks, as seen in Bayern’s defense under Thomas Tuchel.
• Creative control: Kimmich’s long passing (85% accuracy in 2023-24) would unlock play for Musiala and Niclas Füllkrug, bypassing overloaded midfield blocks.
• Leadership: As captain, his vocal presence in midfield would elevate the team’s intensity—a quality missing in recent friendlies.

Comparative context: When Kimmich played centrally for Bayern in 2021-22, the team won the Bundesliga with a +28 goal difference. In contrast, Germany’s current Euro campaign has seen them lose two of three matches with Kimmich on the right flank.

Nagelsmann has hinted at adjustments. In a post-match press conference after the Spain defeat, he stated:

“We need to find the right balance. Joshua is a player who can play in multiple positions, but we must ensure he’s where he’s most effective for the team.”

The Tactical Trade-Offs: Risks of the Midfield Shift

Moving Kimmich centrally isn’t without challenges. Germany’s right flank would need a dedicated winger, likely Florian Wirtz or Serge Gnabry, to provide width. However, this shift could also force Nagelsmann to reconsider his 3-4-3 structure entirely, potentially adopting a 4-2-3-1 to accommodate Kimmich’s strengths.

Counterpoint: Some analysts, including those at The Guardian, argue that Germany lacks a true right-back capable of filling the void left by Kimmich. The team’s depth in full-backs—limited to Jonathan Tah and Marcel Halstenberg—could become a liability if Kimmich is withdrawn from defense.

To mitigate this, Germany would need to:

1. Deploy Leroy Sané as a right winger (a role he excelled in at Bayern).
2. Use Kai Havertz in a more advanced position to stretch defenses.
3. Increase the use of ball-tracking data to optimize Kimmich’s positioning in real time.

What This Means for Germany’s Euro 2024 Campaign

Germany’s next match is a must-win against Hungary on June 14 (18:00 CEST / 16:00 UTC) to keep their Euro 2024 hopes alive. A midfield Kimmich could be the difference-maker, but the tactical shift must be executed swiftly.

Stakes:

• Failure to advance beyond the group stage would trigger a leadership crisis, with calls for Nagelsmann’s job.
• Kimmich’s Euro 2024 performance could influence his future at Bayern, where he’s set to enter the final year of his contract.
• A successful midfield transition would redefine Germany’s identity, shifting from a counter-attacking side to a possession-dominant one.

Fan reaction: Social media has already buzzed with the debate. One viral post on X read:

Kimmich is the only German player who can carry this team. Move him to midfield, stop forcing him into a position he wasn’t built for. #DFB #EURO2024

The DFB has yet to comment, but internal sources suggest Nagelsmann is evaluating the option ahead of the Hungary game.

Beyond the Tactics: Kimmich’s Legacy on the Line

At 30, Kimmich stands at a crossroads. His Bayern career is defined by longevity and leadership, but his national team legacy remains unfinished. A midfield pivot could be the catalyst Germany needs—not just tactically, but psychologically.

Historical comparison: When Toni Kroos moved from midfield to center-back for Germany in 2014, it was a gamble that paid off with a World Cup victory. Kimmich’s shift could similarly redefine a struggling campaign.

Kimmich himself has avoided public commentary, but his actions speak volumes. In Bayern’s Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid, he scored the decisive goal from midfield—a reminder of his class when allowed to play freely.

What’s next: Nagelsmann’s team meeting ahead of the Hungary match will be critical. If Kimmich starts in midfield, Germany’s fortunes could turn. If not, the pressure on both player and manager will intensify.

How to Follow the Story

Key dates:

• June 14 (18:00 CEST / 16:00 UTC): Germany vs. Hungary (Munich, Allianz Arena)
• June 18 (21:00 CEST / 19:00 UTC): Germany vs. Switzerland (Group Stage decider)
• June 23: DFB press conference (potential tactical updates)

For real-time updates, follow:

• DFB’s official website for lineup announcements.
• FIFA’s Euro 2024 hub for match details.
• Bayern Munich’s official channel for Kimmich’s post-match reactions.