Joshua Kimmich, a prominent player for FC Bayern Munich, recently made waves in the football world by choosing to remain with his current club rather than accepting lucrative offers from Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal. Reports indicate that Kimmich could have earned up to 25 million euros annually, including a generous signing fee, had he opted for a move. Instead, he has extended his contract with Bayern under the existing terms, approximately 20 million euros, consciously waiving the chance for a signing bonus.
Kimmich's decision stems from his unwavering belief in the team's potential and the leadership of head coach Vincent Kompany. In an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung, he stated, "I totally believe in the coach – and in us." This sentiment reflects a deeper commitment to the club's long-term goals rather than short-term financial gain. For Kimmich, being part of Bayern Munich is about more than just a paycheck; it's about shaping the future of the team.
The midfielder wants to carve out a pivotal role within the club, aspiring to guide Bayern to sustained success in the Champions League. By choosing not to wait for new offers during the summer transfer window, Kimmich aimed to preserve the integrity of his relationship with the club. He emphasized, "If we had postponed this to the summer, something in the relationship between player and club would have been irreparably damaged." Such statements illustrate his commitment to Bayern's vision.
Financially, Kimmich boasts an estimated net worth of around 9 million euros, primarily from his annual salary at Bayern, estimated at 19.5 million euros. Additionally, he received a bonus of 20,000 euros for participation in a successful qualification match for the 2018 World Cup. Despite these figures, Kimmich prioritizes clarity and loyalty over the potential for more significant financial opportunities.
Kimmich's journey began in Rottweil, Germany, where he was born in 1995. His football ambitions developed early on as he joined VfB Bösingen, his first club. By age 12, he moved to the youth academy of VfB Stuttgart, progressing through the ranks until his transfer to RB Leipzig during the 2013/2014 season. Kimmich gradually elevated his career, leading him to Bayern Munich starting in 2015/2016.
At Bayern, Kimmich's versatility has been a significant asset, showcasing his talents both in defense and midfield. His leadership qualities were instrumental in Bayern's triumph during the unprecedented treble in 2020, winning the Champions League, the Bundesliga, and the DFB-Pokal. This achievement solidified Kimmich's status as a key player in German football.
Since 2016, Kimmich has also made his mark on the international stage, representing the German national team. He has played over 80 matches for Germany and was appointed the new captain by national coach Julian Nagelsmann in September 2024, after İlkay Gündoğan stepped down from the role. This new responsibility further demonstrates Kimmich's growing influence within the sport.
As Bayern anticipates its future, Kimmich's commitment to the club is a refreshing reminder of the passion that drives top athletes beyond mere financial incentives. His focus on fostering team chemistry and building lasting success is a philosophy that resonates with fans, ensuring that their star player remains dedicated to the club's vision.
In a world where high salaries often sway player decisions, Kimmich's choice to stay at Bayern Munich illustrates a rare blend of loyalty and ambition, a trait that will likely define his career as he aims for greatness in the Champions League and beyond.
