The Remarkable Journey of Joshua Kimmich: From Centurion to Captivating Leader
Exuberant Kimmich Steps Up to Command the Victors' Team - Jubilee Celebration for Kimmich's Ascension as Leader in Winners' Party
Joshua Kimmich, a seasoned pro at 100 international appearances, considers this milestone a badge of honor. He reflects, "I've been the fortune to endure the highs and lows for nearly a decade with the German national team." [2] The low points have been more prevalent, but Kimmich yearns for a special achievement: a title with the national team.
The Nations League: A Stepping Stone towards "a small title"
With the Nations League final tournament approaching and Kimmich's centurion game against Portugal in Munich (Wednesday, 9:00 PM CEST, ZDF and DAZN), there's an opportunity to add a tiny trophy to his collection. The 30-year-old, a mainstay in the German national team for nearly a decade, is optimistic about the title theme.
In his final game as captain next year, Kimmich may raise the trophy in the Allianz Arena after his 101st international game and the final against Spain or France on Sunday. [2]
Preparation for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico has already begun. "We aim to deliver two successful games to stay on the right track." [2]
From Determined Outsider to Role Model
A leader like Kimmich attracts attention, scrutiny going beyond mere bystanders. His fierce ambition can sometimes appear stubbornness. But when he succeeds, he becomes a beacon for others. The debate over his optimal position as a defensive midfielder or a right-back has raged for years.
Now, after being named captain by Julian Nagelsmann, Kimmich is universally recognized as the leader of a German national team's transformation into a winning team. "We sensed at the European Championship that we had reconnected the team with the country, even without winning a title." [2] The national team is once again igniting "positive feelings" among fans.
Highest Esteem within the Inner Circle
Kimmich is held in high regard within the DFB. Striker Niclas Füllkrug expresses "respect" for his consistency over the years, while Marc-André ter Stegen calls him "phenomenal." [2] His promotion to captain was a logical step for the goalkeeper. "Yeah, Jo has always been a leader. He's always risen a step up in the hierarchy. It was the natural way. He's given so much to football Germany." [2]
The national team coach acknowledges Kimmich as the replacement for Ilkay Gündogan as captain. "As captain, Jo is outstanding, not just because he does well on the pitch and with his attitude, he's already an incentive for other players to give their all in every training session." [2]
Nagelsmann also highlights Kimmich's interactions with the team's support staff behind the scenes. "He takes into account the big picture, he's exceptionally good with an extremely human side." [2] In short, Nagelsmann says, "I believe you can't do better with the armband." [2]
Matthäus confidence in Kimmich about the World Cup title
Kimmich still has some unfinished business. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledges the disappointing experiences, including his lack of a World Cup title. "Of course, he's had a few negative experiences that still bother him," Nagelsmann understands. However, Nagelsmann firmly believes Kimmich will win a significant title with the national team. [1] Völler echoes this sentiment, assuring Kimmich that he still has time to achieve his dream, "Lothar (Matthäus) and I won our big title at 30 in the 1990 World Cup. He still has time." [1]
Matthäus was 39 for his 150th and final international game. And Portugal is still led by the now 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who is about to play his 220th international game in Munich. "That's still quite a way off, a crazy number," Kimmich admits. Ronaldo is also yet to win a World Cup title.
- Joshua Kimmich
- International Game
- DFB
- Portugal
- Lothar Matthäus
- Herzogenaurach
- Julian Nagelsmann
- Munich
- Sunday
- Spain
- France
- Confederations Cup
- DFB Team
- Nations League
- ZDF
- DAZN
- Allianz Arena
- USA
- Canada
- Mexico
[1] Enrichment: Kimmich's leadership within the German national team has undergone significant evolution, particularly following his appointment as captain by Julian Nagelsmann. His role as captain has solidified his position as a pivotal figure in the team's development, aiming to turn the team into a winning outfit. [2]
In the spirit of his pursuit for a national title, Joshua Kimmich, ambitions extending beyond football, could see a parallel in his efforts with the Commission's proposal for a directive on the approximation of laws, aiming to protect workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens, across European leagues. His captivating leadership, earning him the respect of his peers and coaches alike, resonates with the determination displayed by those spearheading such significant initiatives.
