With Jürgen Klopp at the helm, a new era is beginning for the German national team. Ahead of the first international match under the new head coach, Joshua Kimmich has now offered insight into the areas where the DFB squad needs to change.
Apparently, this involves much more than just tactical adjustments or a new playing philosophy. From the Bayern star’s perspective, Germany needs to develop a clear identity again—and demonstrate it not only during the 90 minutes on the field.
“I think it’s mainly about our attitude on and off the field, as well as within the team. It will be important for us to rediscover our own DNA and identity,” Kimmich explained in an interview with RTL/Sky.
Kimmich: Identity Must Also Be Visible Off the Field
The 31-year-old made it clear that Klopp apparently places great importance on the team’s overall demeanor. The way the national team players interact with one another also plays an important role.
“This identity is reflected on the field—but also off the field, in the way we present ourselves to the outside world, and in our internal conduct. It’s reflected in how we treat one another, how we play for one another, and how we communicate both internally and externally.”
With this, Kimmich suggests that under Klopp, a fresh start is not limited to the sporting realm. The national team coach apparently also wants to work on the team’s mentality and cohesion.
Kimmich himself is likely to play a central role in this process. The Bayern Munich player is one of the most experienced members of the DFB squad and is expected to take on responsibility as captain both on and off the field.
Klopp demands performance from Kimmich
Kimmich also revealed exactly what Klopp expects from his captain. There is no special treatment when it comes to the performance standard.
“Performance is always expected, but I expect that from myself as well. It’s also about helping the team get back to where we belong—and where we should be based on our potential and talent.”
For Kimmich, the task is thus clearly defined. He’s not only expected to deliver his own performance but also to help lead the team back to a higher level.
Klopp had already made it clear that he sees the Bayern star primarily in central midfield going forward. There, Kimmich is expected to take on an important role in the new DFB team.
After the disappointments of recent years, Germany is thus facing a fundamental fresh start. Kimmich’s statements show that Klopp doesn’t just want to change the results. The national team is also supposed to develop its own identity again—and embody it both internally and externally.