
A German media outlet that has often been critical of Kim Min-jae has reported positive news for the first time in a long time.
“Kim Min-jae is like a new man,” the German ‘TZ’ reported on July 21 (KST). The Bayern Munich center back, who had a rough debut season, is once again reminiscent of a monster.”
Since joining the Bavarians from Napoli last summer, Kim Min-jae has started every game for the Bavarians, even amidst controversy at the start of the season. It was not until the 2023 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup that he began to lose his place in the starting lineup. Tuchel’s preference for the defensive combination of Eric Dier and Matthijs de Ligt meant that Kim was often on the bench, and he was eventually relegated to the bench in the second half of the season.
Luckily, he’s now ready for a new challenge. Munich parted ways with Tuchel and appointed Vincent Kompany as their new coach. However, he’ll still have to fight for a starting spot. Matthijs de Ligt and Eric Dier, along with Dayo Upamecano, new signing Hiroki Ito, and Josip Stanisic, who has returned from a loan spell at Leverkusen, will have to compete for two center back spots in the back four.
There is a lot of anticipation to see if he will be at his best once again. First of all, Kim didn’t have a proper preseason last summer due to military training and joining a new team. This season, however, he entered the preseason well-rested.
In addition, Kim hasn’t made any transfers this season and is 파워볼사이트 preparing for the new season with his current club. Throughout his career, which has taken him to Fenerbahce, Napoli, and Munich, Kim has had to adapt to new teams every season. This season, however, will be a continuation of the last.
In training, he has already won Kompany’s heart. “Kim has changed both in appearance and on the pitch,” says TZ, ”He arrived at the start of pre-season with a short haircut. He has also impressed in training with his straightened appearance.”
“It’s also a good fit with Coach Kompany. He gave a big thumbs up to Minjae Kim’s bid last Wednesday. The people who are watching him closely are also very positive about him. “They’re saying, ‘The hungry defense monster is back,’” he added.
He is also reportedly helping his rival Hiroki Ito adjust. Ito is a Japanese center back who joined Munich this summer from Stuttgart. “Ito is also adapting with the help of Kim Min-jae. In Asian cultures, it is customary for older players to help younger ones. The two were spotted together in the city center near the hotel where Ito is currently staying. Kim Min-jae wants to help his teammates as well as himself,” he thumbs up.