"Unexpected Job-Related Announcement Caught FC Bayern Unawares Prior to the Season Commencement"
This season, Joshua Kimmich is expected to play in midfield once more. Originally, the spot on the right back was meant for Josip Stanisic who came back from Leverkusen. However, that won't be happening for now. Sporting director Max Eberl even referred to it as a "mishap" for the champion team of Germany.
Unfortunate setback before the Bundesliga kick-off: Bayern Munich, the German football league champions, will be without right back Josip Stanisic for several weeks. The Croatian player, who participated in the Euros, suffered a tear in his lateral collateral ligament in his right knee during training on Monday, as announced by the club. "Unfortunately, it's a bit of a mishap," said sporting director Max Eberl before the friendly match against Grasshopper Zurich.
Stanisic returned from his loan to Bayer Leverkusen, double champions of Germany. The Croatian had a significant role in the exceptional season of Xabi Alonso's team last year. In total, he played in 38 competitive games for the invincible Leverkusen in Germany during the entire season and became a regular player in the second half.
At his home club, FC Bayern, the Munich-born player was initially planned for the right defensive position. This would have meant Kimmich moving back into midfield. With Stanisic's injury, it's possible that Kimmich will resume his regular position. In the friendly match, 18-year-old talent Adam Aznou was given a chance to play as right back. Konrad Laimer has also played on this position before.
Another possible replacement is Sacha Boey, who was signed from Turkey in the winter. The 23-year-old Frenchman has been training individually recently and returned to team training just yesterday. Noussair Mazrauoi is no longer available to Bayern Munich after his transfer to the English Premier League.
Despite Josip Stanisic's injury, Joshua Kimmich might regain his midfield position in Bayern Munich's lineup. Despite being initially planned for the right defensive position, Kimmich's move back into midfield could be a result of Stanisic's setback.
