- Leipzig's availability for assigning Kimmich as the DFB team captain
Before Bundestrainer Nagelsmann decides on his new team captain, David Raum recently advocated for his friend Joshua Kimmich as the new captain of the German national football team. "He's got a strong drive, leads by action with his on-field demeanor and attitude, and I truly think he's got what it takes. He's already demonstrated his abilities as a captain at Bayern and in the national team," the RB Leipzig left-back stated in "Doppelpass" on Sport1.
Nagelsmann will announce the new team captain during the DFB team's meeting on Monday, ahead of the Nations League matches. Gundogan had decided to retire from international football after the Euros. Kimmich (29), with 91 international caps, is the most seasoned player in the current squad and the obvious front-runner for the captain's armband.
Possible deputies could be Antonio Rudiger, who was given a rest this time, Kai Havertz, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the expected new starting goalkeeper. The national team will face Hungary in Duesseldorf on September 7, followed by the classic against the Netherlands in Amsterdam three days later. Nagelsmann has summoned 23 players for his first squad following the Euros, with Angelo Stiller (23) from VfB Stuttgart being the only newcomer. The preparation will take place in the EM quarter in Herzogenaurach.
Raum and Kimmich developed a football camaraderie during the Euros and made it evident in their humorous joint media appearance. "I get the sense that he's often portrayed as rather serious by reporters or people, but he's actually quite a funny guy, a big kid in an adult's body, and I really enjoy that," Raum commented on the Munich player. For instance, Raum's video of their tree-planting activity during the Euros went viral on the internet.
Nagelsmann appreciated Raum's support for Kimmich, mentioning during the team meeting, "David, your comments about Joshua's leadership skills have been noted." later, in the team's downtime, Raum and Kimmich could be found sharing laughter and stories in their shared room.
