In a surprising turn of events, Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has been named the new captain of Germany’s national team. This decision comes after the retirement of several senior players, including Ilkay Gündogan, who previously held the captaincy. Kimmich, at just 29 years old, will now lead the team in upcoming Nations League matches against Hungary and the Netherlands.
Despite not having previous experience as a permanent captain for either Bayern Munich or the national team, Kimmich has proven himself as a leader on the field. With 91 international games under his belt, Kimmich has already worn the captain’s armband 17 times, showcasing his ability to step up when needed. His appointment as captain by coach Julian Nagelsmann signals a new era for the German national team.
Former captain Ilkay Gündogan, who was appointed by then-coach Hansi Flick, played a significant role in leading Germany during the Euro 2024 tournament. However, his retirement from international duty has paved the way for Kimmich to take over the captaincy. Gündogan’s departure, along with other high-profile retirements, has created an opportunity for younger players to step up and make their mark on the team.
With goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, forward Thomas Müller, and midfielder Toni Kroos also retiring from international duty, Germany is undergoing a period of transition. Coach Julian Nagelsmann has named a squad with only one uncapped player for the Nations League, emphasizing the need for continuity and stability amidst the changes. The decision to name Marc-André ter Stegen as the new starting goalkeeper further demonstrates Germany’s commitment to building for the future.
As Germany begins to rebuild its national team with a new generation of players, the focus is now on preparing for the 2026 World Cup. With Joshua Kimmich at the helm as captain, the team will look to establish a new identity and compete at the highest level on the international stage. The transition from the old guard to the new generation represents a pivotal moment in German football, one that will define the team’s future success.
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