Bayern Munich’s Champions League Match Against Leverkusen Crucial for Kimmich’s Contract

For FC Bayern Munich, a victory in the Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen is important not only for sporting reasons but also for the financial implications related to expensive contract renewals. Advancing to the quarter-finals will yield an additional 12.5 million euros from the European football governing body UEFA’s prize pool, along with several million euros from another home match in the prestigious tournament.

This significant funding could be directed towards a new contract for DFB captain Joshua Kimmich, following recent extensions for captain Manuel Neuer, rising star Jamal Musiala, and defender Alphonso Davies.

Negotiations Stalled

However, discussions with the 30-year-old Kimmich have recently stalled, raising concerns that he could leave the German record champions this summer. He is among the highest earners at the club.

So far this Champions League season, Bayern has earned 48.37 million euros from UEFA prize money prior to tonight’s first leg against Leverkusen (21:00/DAZN). Additionally, there will be an unknown value prize that is expected to be in the double-digit millions.

Leverkusen Leading in Prize Money

Currently, Bayer Leverkusen is the top prize money earner among the five Bundesliga clubs participating in the Champions League. The German champions have accumulated 50.57 million euros, including 11 million euros for reaching the round of 16. The Werkself could also use additional revenue to extend the contract of highly sought-after national player Florian Wirtz beyond 2027 as intended.

The prize money increases with each round; as mentioned, the quarter-finalists receive 12.5 million euros, while each of the four semi-finalists will get 15 million euros. The largest sums will be awarded on May 31 at the final in Munich, where the winner will receive 25 million euros and the runner-up 18.5 million euros.