FC Bayern have clinched the German championship and celebrated in style – but Joshua Kimmich’s joy was mixed with a serious undertone. After winning the title, the midfield boss was thinking above all about his injured team-mate Serge Gnabry
When asked who was currently creating the best atmosphere in the dressing room, Kimmich did not have to think twice. „Serge, actually,“ explained the 31-year-old on the DAZN microphone. But it quickly became clear that the attacking player’s latest injury was visibly affecting him
The diagnosis hit Bayern just before the Stuttgart game: Gnabry has torn his adductor muscles and will be out for a long time. Particularly bitter – not only for the final stretch of the season, but also in view of the upcoming World Cup
Kimmich was accordingly concerned: „Of course we miss him extremely. In the dressing room, on the pitch – it’s a really, really big loss, both as a footballer and as a person,“ emphasized the international
More than just teammates
The connection between Kimmich and Gnabry goes far beyond the sporting side of things. The two have a close friendship that is also evident off the pitch – for example, when Gnabry acted as best man at Kimmich’s wedding
This makes the current situation all the more difficult for the midfielder, who is not only losing an important key player, but also a close confidant for the time being
Bayern face a decisive phase
Despite the championship title, Munich still have an intensive phase ahead of them, with further key games awaiting them in the DFB Cup semi-final and the Champions League duels against Paris Saint-Germain
Kimmich knows that Gnabry’s absence will hurt: „It will hurt us a lot, but I hope we can make up for it somehow.“
The Bayern star’s words show that even in moments of success, the team pulls together – and does not lose sight of those who are unable to join in the celebrations.