Bayern Munich Prepares for Stuttgart Match Without Kimmich

Team Focused on Upcoming Challenges

Following a grand celebration for the 125th anniversary of FC Bayern Munich, which featured many former club legends and dignitaries including FIFA president Gianni Infantino, coach Vincent Kompany highlighted an important detail ahead of the challenging match against VfB Stuttgart. He confirmed that the players‘ curfew was set for 10:00 PM, a full hour earlier than previously noted.

The Bundesliga leaders are seeking crucial points in this match, which is vital for their title aspirations as well as for building momentum ahead of a significant Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen. Kompany remarked, „A 125-year celebration is not something we experience every day. We participated as it was appropriate, but the players went to bed early. We will not work any less.“

The coming weeks could determine the historical significance of Kompany’s tenure at Bayern. He mentioned, „We have looked to the past, and hopefully, we can contribute to a positive chapter in the 150-year celebration. Our focus is on Stuttgart, so that our fans and the club can continue celebrating through the weekend. We know what we need to do!“

Facing Stuttgart Without Kimmich

This match will mark a first for Kompany as he will have to set up a starting eleven without the influential Joshua Kimmich. The 30-year-old midfielder is sidelined due to a tendon strain in his thigh, an injury he sustained during the convincing 4-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. Kompany stated, „Unless a miracle happens, this match is too soon for him. We are not taking any risks! Kimmich will be much more needed for the important match against Leverkusen. We will manage with our squad. Kimmich is not the first to be unavailable.“

For this match, the midfield is expected to consist of Leon Goretzka and Aleksandar Pavlovic. It is a positive development for Bayern that striker Harry Kane, who had previously experienced a calf hemorrhage, is ready to return to the starting lineup.

Future Uncertainty for Kimmich

The absence of Kimmich could signal future changes for Bayern. Reports suggest that the board, led by honorary president Uli Hoeneß, will not improve their contract offer to the key player. The „Bild“ newspaper has even reported on the possibility of retracting the current offer. This may increase the pressure on Kimmich, although discussions are still ongoing.

Sporting director Max Eberl described the upcoming match against Stuttgart as comparable to a Champions League game, citing the difficulty of playing away at VfB. He recalled last season’s struggle, where Bayern lost 3-1 on matchday 32. The VfB, led by coveted coach Sebastian Hoeneß, is also facing critical weeks ahead with matches against Bayern, Kiel, Leverkusen, and Frankfurt.

Rummenigge’s Expectations

During the anniversary celebration, former Bayern chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge emphasized the unique pressure Kompany faces this season. He stated, „Last year, we did not win a title. Therefore, we must become German champions this year.“ Rummenigge also expressed the desire to progress as far as possible in the Champions League, noting the importance of the upcoming matches against Leverkusen. „The burden of being favorites now lies with Leverkusen, but we are not going into these games without a chance,“ he said.

Rummenigge expressed satisfaction with Kompany’s performance, but added, „It doesn’t mean anything. Coaches have a challenging task. At top clubs like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Manchester City, you have to perform every weekend.“