20. April 2025

Sport Express

Express-Sport direkt aus der Arena

Matthäus sees Bayern’s withdrawal of Kimmich’s contract offer as a strong signal

Matthäus sees Bayern’s withdrawal of Kimmich’s contract offer as a strong signal

Lothar Matthäus interprets Bayern Munich's withdrawal of Joshua Kimmich's contract offer as a significant message, emphasizing the need for a swift decision.

Football record national player Lothar Matthäus views Bayern Munich’s retraction of the contract offer to Joshua Kimmich as a powerful message from the club. The team seeks clarity, Matthäus stated in an interview with the pay-TV channel Sky. However, he emphasized that the door remains open for Kimmich at the German record champions. „Bayern wants a swift decision, as they need to plan for the upcoming season,“ said the 63-year-old.

„This is a sign that they are waiting for a decision from Kimmich in the short term. It is a clear message to him,“ explained Matthäus. According to reports, the Bundesliga leaders have withdrawn their offer to the 30-year-old Kimmich for a new contract until 2028. The current contract of the captain of the German national team is set to expire at the end of the season.

Rummenigge and Helmer also comment

Similar to Matthäus, former Bayern professional Michael Rummenigge advised Kimmich to extend his contract with Bayern. „He would be wise to stay at FC Bayern,“ said the 61-year-old brother of former Bayern board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. „Bayern is ruthless in this regard. I have to take my hat off to the club. One cannot let everything happen to them,“ he stated.

In contrast, former national player Thomas Helmer expressed surprise over the reportedly withdrawn offer to Kimmich. „If Bayern pulls back an offer, especially at a time when they have successfully secured contracts with (Jamal) Musiala and (Alphonso) Davies, I find that very surprising. I did not expect that,“ said the 1996 European champion. He does not believe that financial aspects are the primary concern for Kimmich in the contract negotiations. „That’s not how I see him,“ said the 59-year-old.