Joshua Kimmich sets the pace at FC Bayern, is the extended arm of the coach and has also been captain since Manuel Neuer’s injury. But after an outstanding first half of the season, the 31-year-old is currently going through a phase that does not fit in at all with his otherwise stable performance level. The latest figures and scenes paint an unusual picture – and even sporting director Max Eberl had strong words to say after the 3-2 defeat against Eintracht Frankfurt
The debate was triggered by Eintracht’s late 2:3. Kimmich played a risky cross through his own penalty area, putting Minjae Kim under pressure. Arnaud Kalimuendo took full advantage of the situation. While many observers saw both defensive players as responsible, Eberl surprisingly took Kim out of the firing line. „Minjae had nothing to do with the goal,“ the sporting director made clear and spoke of a „hara-kiri“ action by Kimmich
Fundamental debate about Bayern’s playing DNA
A fundamental discussion then ensued. Kimmich emphasised that you have to find playful solutions even under pressure. For him, this risk is part of FC Bayern’s identity. Eberl countered: „If the danger becomes too great, at some point it’s time to put it out.“ Two views that are emblematic of the current phase
In fact, the critical scenes have been piling up since the winter break. The Frankfurt goal was the third goal conceded in 2026 in which Kimmich was involved. Against Augsburg, he failed to prevent a cross from going in at 1:1, which ultimately led to the first defeat of the season. A week later, he conceded a penalty in the 2:2 draw against HSV. Even in the 3:0 against Bremen, he made a momentous ball loss, which Jonas Urbig had to make up for. Striking: 21 ball losses against Werder – more than in any other game this season. His average is now around eleven per 90 minutes
Figures prove the drop in performance
The dip is also noticeable statistically. Before the winter break, Kimmich averaged 125 ball actions per 90 minutes, after which it was just 104. Against Frankfurt, it was just 71 – fewer than Upamecano, Kim and even attacking player Michael Olise with 89 ball actions
There was also a drop in scoring. Before the break, Kimmich scored one goal and seven assists, i.e. one scoring point every 242 minutes. Since then, he has recorded just two assists – one per 345 minutes. His tackle rate also fell from around 58 per cent to 51 per cent, and against Frankfurt it was just 33 per cent
At least his disciplinary record has remained stable, with four yellow cards against Frankfurt allowing him to avoid a ban for the top match in Dortmund. Despite his poor form, Kimmich remains indispensable for Vincent Kompany. But the figures clearly show that the Bayern chief strategist is currently searching for his best form.
