- Manager Nagelsmann declares formally: Kimmich joins Gündogan's footsteps
Joshua Kimmich has been chosen as the new head of the German football team's squad by Julian Nagelsmann. The 29-year-old Munich player takes over from Ilkay Gundogan, as was anticipated, and will guide the DFB team towards the 2026 World Cup in North America. Gundogan decided to retire from international football following the home Euro. Nagelsmann appointed Antonio Rudiger and Kai Havertz as Kimmich's second-in-commands.
As Nagelsmann stated during the national team's gathering at the team quarters in Herzogenaurach, "The captain is the voice of the team. We've picked players with a strong connection."
Nagelsmann further added, "Given that Josh was one of the three captains during the Euro, it's only logical that he's the top pick when others aren't available." Kimmich is described as someone who "gives his all, sometimes even more than necessary, and always aims for victory."
Kimmich is set to make his first official appearance as captain during the Nations League opener against Hungary next Saturday (8:45 PM/ZDF), in Düsseldorf. Unlike at FC Bayern Munich, the 29-year-old will maintain his role as a right-back in the national team, not shifting back to central midfield: "Kimmich has set a high standard as a right-back during the Euro," as indicated by Nagelsmann.
Becoming the team leader is still a significant honor for Kimmich in his already extensive DFB career. The dedicated footballer made his debut for the national team in the Euro test against Slovakia in May 2016, resulting in a 1-3 defeat. He was also included in the following championship in France.
A mix of Confed Cup victories and disappointments
Following the Confed Cup triumph with a young team in Russia in 2017, the road appeared paved for further noteworthy successes. However, Kimmich's tournament journey was filled with unfortunate events. Premature World Cup exits in 2018 and 2022, as well as Euro disenchantment in 2021 – the hardships experienced by the DFB team were closely connected to Kimmich's name. The home Euro, marked by impressive performances, a positive atmosphere, and finally an unfortunate quarter-final exit against Spain in the summer, should serve as a turning point. Kimmich's leadership claims had been previously demonstrated, such as during Manuel Neuer's deputy tenure.
Achieving the 100-club is within reach this summer
The promotion is well-deserved. With 91 international appearances, Kimmich leads the current Nagelsmann squad. In the summer, he could potentially join the 100-club. Rudiger (74), Havertz (51), and Marc-Andre ter Stegen (40) are following closely behind, with ter Stegen ready to replace Manuel Neuer as the primary goalkeeper. The goalkeeper, along with Jonathan Tah, Pascal Gross, and Niclas Fullkrug, are part of the new team council.
Kimmich's leadership in soccer was evident during the Euro, as he demonstrated strong performance and a positive team atmosphere. After being chosen as captain, he will lead the German team towards the 2026 World Cup, aiming to turn around the mix of Confed Cup victories and disappointments that have marked his career so far.
