FC Bayern secured direct progression in the Champions Leaguewith a 2-0 win against Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, but Munich’s performance was once again no walk in the park. The German record champions struggled in the first half in particular. Joshua Kimmich was nonetheless relaxed about the performance after the game – and provided an interesting insight into the team’s current development
The 30-year-old made it clear that although it remains a clear objective to control games early on and get into a comfortable position as quickly as possible, Bayern have long since adapted to finding other ways to success. It is precisely this ability that is increasingly distinguishing FCB this season
Early decision remains a desire, but not a compulsion
„Of course it’s easier if you decide games in the first 30 minutes,“ Kimmich explained openly. At the same time, the midfield boss pointed to a decisive factor: the team’s physical condition. FC Bayern are currently in a position to dominate and decide games in the closing stages, he said
This statement is remarkable because it contradicts Munich’s long-held belief in deciding matches as early as possible. However, Kimmich emphasized that fitness in particular is a major advantage. Bayern have „no problem deciding games from the 60th minute onwards“, which has already been demonstrated several times this season
As examples, he cited not only the recent clash against Leipzig, but also games against VfB Stuttgart, in which FCB only made things clear late on. For Kimmich, it is therefore clear that even if an early 3-0 lead makes many things easier, it is no longer an absolute must in order to be successful
Close games as FC Bayern’s new strength
Kimmich was even clearer when looking at the team’s overall form. He classified criticism of weaker phases of the game as „looking for a fly in the ointment“. Although he admitted that not everything was going perfectly, this is currently one of the team’s greatest strengths
The international pointed out that even in games that were „on a knife-edge“, FC Bayern often had the upper hand in the end. The game against Leipzig was a particularly good example, as the opponents also had top-class chances there and Manuel Neuer had to intervene decisively on several occasions
For Kimmich, the decisive factor is that the team is increasingly winning such 50:50 games. Several factors are crucial here: a strong team spirit, individual quality and players who have been in outstanding form for weeks and months. This mixture ensures that FC Bayern win even when the game is not clearly dominated
This new maturity could be hugely important in view of the upcoming tasks in the Champions League, as it is often not perfect performances that are decisive in the knockout phase, but mental strength, patience and efficiency – qualities that FC Bayern currently embody more than ever, according to Kimmich.