A Case for Kimmich: Khedira's Captaincy Suggestion
In the sphere of German football, former World Cup champion Sami Khedira throws his hat in the ring for Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich, proposing him as a leading contender for the new team captain, following Ilkay Gündogan's departure. With Julian Nagelsmann needed to set his sights on a successor prior to the upcoming September international matches against Hungary and the Netherlands, Khedira, the 37-year-old veteran, believes Kimmich is a strong candidate for the role.
Loosely echoing the criticisms faced by Kimmich from various quarters, Khedira expressed, "He has faced backlash from all directions and critics, but I think those criticisms stem from being targeted relentlessly by experts." With a history of playing side-by-side with Kimmich in the national team, Khedira's faith in the 29-year-old Bayern Munich star is unyielding.
Attesting to Kimmich's character and talent, Khedira affirmed, "If you know him, if you know his ambition, athletic ability, and his eagerness to take on leadership responsibilities, I can confidently suggest that he would be an excellent choice to take Ilkay Gündogan's place if given the proper backing and encouragement."
The rotating doors of retirements among previous World Cup teammates, including Manuel Neuer, Toni Kroos, and Thomas Müller, create a golden opportunity for fresh faces who yearn to shine. Khedira, in light of these transitions, views the road to the 2026 World Cup as a perfect opportunity for budding talents, while also expressing confidence in the next stage of the German team's journey.
As the September international matches approach, the responsibility to guide Germany falls on Khedira's chosen successor. With Khimich's ambition, athleticism, and eagerness in leadership roles, Khedira believes this young, talented star could fill the shoes of Gündogan as the team's new captain if properly supported and motivate him.
Uncover the journey of lesser-known coaches from coffee sellers to advertising stars in . Learn more about Dortmund's historical triumphs leading up to the European Cup Finals in . Dive into Schröder's intense self-promotion during his reign in . Witness the prodigies who have paved the way for up-and-coming athletes like Littler in .
Though Khedira didn't specifically opine on the potential for other candidates to lead the team, Kimmich's talents combined with his recent impressive performances position him as a likely contender for the available role. The appointment of a new team captain often centers around several elements such as the current team dynamics, player experience, and exhibition of natural leadership qualities, all of which are subjective and heavily considered by coaching staff and team management.
