Joshua Kimmich (left) in action against Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku. © ANSA / Leonhard Simon

Hainer: No understanding of Barcelona's dredging of Kimmich

FC Barcelona are said to be keeping an eye on Joshua Kimmich. Barça coach Xavi recently spoke about the German international. Bayern boss Hainer doesn't like this at all.

June 17, 2023

From: dpa

Bayern Munich President Herbert Hainer has clearly rejected FC Barcelona's attempts to poach Joshua Kimmich and expressed incomprehension for public statements. The 68-year-old told the pay TV channel Sky that he has great respect for the Catalan club. “But I have to be honest, I don’t fully understand why they are attacking our player so publicly and offensively. Joshua Kimmich is an absolute fixture for us, he is a leader, he is our third captain and has already won so many titles with us and will continue to win many more titles with us in the future.”

When looking for a successor to Sergio Busquets, Barcelona are also said to be keeping an eye on Kimmich. Barça coach Xavi recently said Kimmich is a “top player” in his position and understands the game. When asked whether the Bayern professional could succeed Busquets, the 43-year-old replied: "Well, Kimmich has a contract, if a door were to open there would have to be negotiations with Bayern Munich."

Bayern Munich President Herbert Hainer doesn't like the interest in Kimmich. © APA/afp / CHRISTOF STACHE

The German international recently pointed out that he was still under contract with FC Bayern for two more years: “We have big plans there.” Hainer emphasized that the 28-year-old was firmly planned for the future and that the team was also built around Kimmich should be.

Hainer said he could not understand the recent public criticism of Kimmich. Every player also has phases in which things don't go well. “Only when you see what Joshua Kimmich has achieved in recent years, for FC Bayern, for the German national team, how he puts in every game from the first to the last minute, then I am of the opinion that he is Respect means that you give him that once in a while.”