Dietmar Hamann Questions Joshua Kimmich’s Germany Future as Midfield Debate Intensifies
Joshua Kimmich’s place in Germany’s starting lineup is once again under scrutiny, with former international Dietmar Hamann arguing that the Bayern Munich captain may struggle to secure a long-term role in central midfield. The debate has grown after Germany’s recent international break, when several players impressed in the position while Kimmich was away from the squad.
Hamann’s comments have sparked a familiar argument in German football: is Kimmich most valuable as a midfielder, or have his strongest performances come at right-back? Former Bayern teammate Lothar Matthäus strongly disagrees with Hamann, describing Kimmich as an indispensable leader and an automatic starter for the national team.
Why Kimmich’s Germany Role Is Being Questioned
Kimmich featured in Germany’s opening Nations League matches under new coach Jürgen Klopp before leaving the national team’s expanded 44-player group, as had been agreed in advance. Reports indicated that the midfielder wanted to remain with the squad, but his departure gave other players an opportunity to make their case in central midfield.
Their performances have added fresh fuel to the selection debate. Klopp has attempted to discourage speculation, but the question remains: how should Germany build its midfield, and does Kimmich still have a guaranteed place in the centre?
Hamann believes the answer is less straightforward than Kimmich’s reputation might suggest. Speaking on Sky 90, he pointed to the decisions made by several high-profile coaches who have used Kimmich at right-back. His argument was that if coaches such as Hansi Flick, Thomas Tuchel and Julian Nagelsmann have preferred him in that position at different times, it is fair to question whether he is truly a world-class central midfielder.
Hamann’s View: Central Midfield Is the Key Test
Hamann described central midfield as football’s “engine room,” where teams control the tempo, protect the defence and create the platform for attacks. In his view, the role demands more than technical quality. Midfielders must also read danger early, resist pressure, win duels and make decisions that shape the flow of a match.
That is why Hamann is unconvinced by claims that Kimmich should automatically be considered world-class in the middle. His criticism is not necessarily a dismissal of Kimmich’s overall ability; rather, it focuses on whether the Bayern star is the best option for Germany in that specific position, especially as younger midfielders emerge.
Hamann was also careful not to suggest that Tom Bischof is ready to replace Kimmich immediately. He praised Bischof as a talented footballer but urged caution about whether he is suited to a central role at the highest level. Instead, Hamann said that if Germany were preparing for a European Championship final tomorrow, he would choose Aleksandar Pavlović and Felix Nmecha in midfield.
That hypothetical selection highlights the competitive challenge facing Kimmich. Germany have several options with different strengths: some offer defensive coverage, others bring forward momentum, and Kimmich combines experience, passing range and intensity. The coach’s task is to find the balance that best supports the team rather than simply selecting the most recognisable names.
Matthäus Defends Kimmich’s Leadership and Quality
Matthäus, Germany’s most-capped player, has offered a very different assessment. After Bayern’s emphatic 6-1 Bundesliga victory over RB Leipzig, he praised Kimmich as an “absolute leader,” stressing that the midfielder’s influence extends beyond a single performance.
Matthäus argued that leadership at Bayern should translate to the national team. He pointed to Kimmich’s energy, personality, presence and footballing quality, saying those traits make him essential to any side. In his view, Kimmich’s contribution cannot be measured only through goals or assists; his ability to organise teammates and keep the team moving is equally important.
He also criticised the idea that Germany should leave Kimmich out in favour of Pavlović or Nmecha. Matthäus said the younger players are not simply interchangeable with Kimmich, particularly when it comes to controlling possession and providing consistent distribution. His preferred solution is to start Kimmich and pair him with one of the emerging midfielders.
A Question of Balance, Not Just Individual Form
The disagreement between Hamann and Matthäus reflects a broader issue for Germany. A successful midfield depends on how its players complement one another. A pairing may need one midfielder to protect the defence, another to carry the ball forward and a third to dictate play. Kimmich’s versatility gives the coach options, but it can also complicate the discussion about where he is most effective.
His experience is a major advantage, particularly in high-pressure fixtures. Kimmich has played in major international tournaments and has spent years competing at the highest level with Bayern. At the same time, a new coaching era can bring changes in tactical priorities, and strong performances from younger players naturally increase competition for places.
Hamann also suggested that Kimmich’s captaincy could eventually become less important if other players establish themselves in the lineup. He believes the issue may resolve itself through selection: if new midfielders become regular starters, the leadership conversation could shift along with the team’s structure.
What the Debate Means for Germany’s Next Matches
For Klopp, the challenge is to make a clear tactical decision without allowing public criticism to overshadow the team’s progress. Kimmich can offer Germany a proven leader and a high level of technical ability, while Pavlović, Nmecha and Bischof represent competition and potential. The best choice may vary depending on the opponent, the formation and the demands of each match.
For supporters, the discussion is likely to continue until Germany produces a settled midfield combination and performs consistently. Hamann’s scepticism raises legitimate questions about Kimmich’s suitability for the central role, while Matthäus’s defence underlines why many still regard him as one of the team’s most important players.
Ultimately, Kimmich’s future with Germany may depend less on reputation than on how effectively he fits Klopp’s preferred system. Whether deployed in midfield or at right-back, his influence remains significant. The coming matches should offer a clearer indication of whether the captain remains central to Germany’s plans—or whether competition in the engine room is beginning to reshape the national team.
