The German national team is facing some crucial weeks ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Joshua Kimmich has now found clear words – and is calling for one thing above all: the right attitude in the DFB team
The captain of the German national team makes no secret of how important the upcoming international matches against Switzerland and Ghana are for the team’s development. After mixed performances in recent months, the 31-year-old sees the lack of consistency as a key problem
Kimmich emphasizes that the upcoming games play a decisive role in the team’s further development. „For us in the situation we’re in, the two games are very important,“explained the Bayern professional in an interview with SWR. Precisely because there has been a lack of stability recently, every minute together on the pitch is of great importance
The midfielder also sees this as an opportunity for the team to grow closer together. „Accordingly, every game is good for us because I believe that the squad is growing closer and closer together,“ said Kimmich. It is particularly important to be able to line up with the best possible squad – he is therefore critical of individual players withdrawing
Clear criticism: „That must not be the case“
Kimmich is clear about the attitude of some players and warns against classifying international matches as less relevant, especially in phases in which club soccer takes priority. „It shouldn’t be the case that anyone doesn’t feel like playing an international match,“ the DFB captain makes clear
For him, playing for Germany is a matter of course – regardless of the competition. „It’s something very special to be able to play an international match for Germany, regardless of whether it’s a friendly or a qualifier,“ emphasizes Kimmich
He sees this attitude as a basic prerequisite for getting the national team back on the road to success, especially in view of the 2026 World Cup, which requires a clear commitment from all players
Kimmich also commented on squad planning and made it clear that his role is clearly defined despite the captain’s armband. Although there is a regular exchange with the national coach and those responsible, the final decisions are not up to him
„Of course, we talk to each other, but it’s the coach’s job to nominate and select the personnel,“ explained the 31-year-old. At the same time, he emphasized his trust in the sporting management: „We players also trust him to make the best decisions for the team.“