MUNICH (AP) — Bayern Munich has reportedly withdrawn its contract extension offer to midfielder Joshua Kimmich, creating uncertainty about the player's future at the club. This decision follows Kimmich's hesitation to accept the proposed deal, which would have improved on his current salary of approximately 20 million euros ($21 million) per year.
According to reports from German media, including Kicker and Bild, the decision to retract the offer was made during Bayern's supervisory board meeting on February 26, 2025. The club's management had expected Kimmich to provide a quick response to the offer but grew frustrated with his indecision, leading them to withdraw the proposal entirely.
Bayern's board member for sports, Max Eberl, had previously expressed optimism about negotiations, stating, "We've done our work bit by bit. We've had very good discussions with Joshua. We've clearly shown what our idea is with the extensions (that were announced)." He had hoped to finalize the contract renewal, noting the successful extensions of other key players, including Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies.
Since joining Bayern Munich from RB Leipzig at the young age of 20, Kimmich has established himself as one of the club's central figures, playing over 400 games and assuming the captain's armband on numerous occasions. His performance has made him indispensable to the team, noted for his skill, vision, and leadership qualities. Throughout the current season, Kimmich has been instrumental for Bayern, playing every minute across three competitions prior to sustaining a tendon strain against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Despite the withdrawal of the contract offer, Kimmich's relationship with Bayern isn't completely severed. Speculation suggests he still has opportunities for negotiation; nevertheless, it remains uncertain if the terms of the original contract offer will be restored. There are reports of interest from several clubs, particularly from the Premier League, including Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool. The possibility of reuniting with former Bayern coach Hansi Flick at Barcelona has also surfaced, yet financial constraints make any potential transfer complicated.
The withdrawal of Kimmich's contract offer has raised questions about Bayern's future planning, especially since the club had aimed to finalize renewals with its key players. The management's frustration with Kimmich's indecisiveness highlights the modern challenges clubs face with contract renewals, as they must balance player loyalty with competitive salary demands.
Handling players like Kimmich, who combines immense talent with significant market value, requires strategic planning, especially as clubs navigate the financial landscapes of modern football. It’s not just about securing talent; it’s about maintaining balance within the team's wage structure, particularly with competitive offers expected from rival teams.
The question now is whether Kimmich will reconsider his stance or explore the market. With his current contract ending on June 30, 2025, he could potentially leave Bayern Munchen as a free agent. The club's decision not to improve its financial proposal suggests they want clarity quickly, either accepting or rejecting the offered terms.
While Bayern continues negotiations with other players and solidifies their roster, it’s clear the club’s leadership is eager for Kimmich to make a decision. They must prepare for the future, whether with Kimmich on their roster or planning beyond his exit.
This latest development indicates significant shifts within the German footballing powerhouse, as they look to bolster their squad for upcoming seasons. The Kimmich situation encapsulates the tightrope clubs walk between securing star players and managing the realities of modern football finances.
Observers remain intrigued as to how this situation will resolve, not just for Kimmich, but also for Bayern Munich, as they aim to navigate this pivotal moment with their squad strategy. Will they reclaim Kimmich’s commitment, or will they see one of their key players depart to another top club when the summer transfer window opens?