The 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico is already generating a lot of discussion before the first kick-off. In addition to sporting issues, political questions are at the center of attention – especially because of the role of the USA and President Donald Trump. Joshua Kimmich has now taken a clear stance on the debate
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, the FC Bayern midfielder made it clear that although he is by no means ignoring political issues, he does not see the players as being responsible for them
„Having no opinion is not a solution,“ Kimmich initially explained in principle
At the same time, however, the DFB captain also emphasized the limits of his own role: „Each of us inevitably has a personal stance on certain issues, and I also have certain values that I adhere to.“
Kimmich believes politicians and associations have a responsibility
Kimmich was particularly clear on the question of what is expected of professional footballers in political discussions. „Just because you have an opinion doesn’t make you an expert,“ the Bayern star clarified
In his view, politicians and associations are more in demand: „It is the job of politicians or associations to take a position on such issues.“
Kimmich also referred to the complexity of political conflicts: „Political situations in particular are often difficult to assess – even for people who deal with them professionally.“
„False expectations“ of footballers
The 31-year-old also made it clear that he is sometimes critical of the expectations placed on players. „The idea that we players can solve these problems or change anything about them is a false expectation,“ explained Kimmich
The Bayern professional is thus positioning himself very differently to many of the debates surrounding the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when the focus was on political statements from the national teams
Kimmich himself wants to concentrate primarily on soccer at the 2026 World Cup, and the leading player will once again be a central figure in Julian Nagelsmann’s team at the tournament in North America
After winning the double with FC Bayern, he now wants to achieve the big time with the national team.