Joshua Kimmich's recent revelation rips open a forgotten chapter of Bayern Munich's recent history, exposing just how close the midfield maestro came to a sensational exit, with PSG knocking fiercely on his door and "crazy" money on the table.
His candid admission in the 'Captain Kimmich' documentary paints a vivid picture of a player at a crossroads, contemplating a blockbuster move that would have sent shockwaves across European football.
Key Points:
- Kimmich was nearly certain to depart Bayern Munich just over a year ago amidst contract uncertainty.
- Sporting director Max Eberl confirmed Bayern's willingness to sell if Kimmich desired to leave.
- PSG launched an aggressive pursuit, with Luis Enrique and Luis Campos making a compelling offer, including "crazy" financial terms.
- A dramatic change of heart, influenced by family and the vision of new coach Vincent Kompany, ultimately saw Kimmich extend his Bayern contract until 2029.
The Shaking Foundations: Kimmich's Bayern Future in Doubt
For a player synonymous with Bayern Munich, the idea of Joshua Kimmich in another jersey felt almost sacrilegious. Yet, as his contract wound down just a year ago, the midfielder openly explored his options, creating a tense standoff with the club's hierarchy.
This period of deliberation, where Kimmich weighed his long-term future, reportedly caused frustration on the Bayern supervisory board. It even led to a brief withdrawal of their initial contract offer, signaling just how precarious his position had become.
"For Sale" Says Bayern: Eberl's Stance
The turning point arrived during a pivotal conversation with Bayern's sporting director, Max Eberl. Kimmich confirmed that Eberl explicitly stated the club's openness to a transfer if the player wished to depart.
"If you want to go, then you are for sale, then that is possible," Eberl reportedly told him. This frank admission from a key figure within the club undoubtedly intensified Kimmich's consideration of a move away from the Allianz Arena.
Paris Calling: PSG's All-Out Pursuit
With the door ajar, Paris Saint-Germain wasted no time in making their intentions clear. The French champions launched an all-out charm offensive, demonstrating an astonishing level of commitment that left Kimmich genuinely impressed.
Enrique's Vision & Campos' Charm Offensive
PSG's manager, Luis Enrique, and sporting advisor, Luis Campos, spearheaded the audacious bid. Campos even took the extraordinary step of visiting Kimmich's private home, personally presenting the club's ambitious project in the French capital.
"They really did a good job and gave me the impression that they really wanted me. That really caught my attention," Kimmich recounted. This aggressive, personalized approach by PSG proved to be incredibly effective in swaying the midfielder's perspective.
"Crazy Money" and Family Logistics
The discussions advanced to such a degree that Kimmich began making concrete plans for a relocation. He candidly admitted to exploring residential areas and schools in Paris, envisioning a life for his family and four children in France.
The financial package on offer from PSG was, in Kimmich's own words, "crazy. Really. Very, very crazy." Despite the astronomical figures, he insisted that money was not the sole motivator for his potential departure. At this stage, he estimated his chances of renewing with Bayern at a mere five percent.
The Kompany Factor: A Dramatic U-Turn
Despite being "95 percent unlikely" to renew, an unforeseen combination of factors ultimately led to Kimmich's dramatic U-turn. Family considerations undoubtedly played a significant role, but the arrival of a new managerial voice proved decisive.
Loyalty Rewarded: Kimmich's Confident Choice
The appointment of Vincent Kompany as Thomas Tuchel's successor at Bayern proved to be the catalyst. Kompany quickly outlined his vision, positioning Kimmich as a central pillar in his plans for the club.
Reflecting on the saga, Kimmich now expresses absolute confidence in his choice. "It was right that I extended my contract with Bayern," he concluded. This pivotal decision closed a significant chapter, reaffirming his status as a Bayern Munich stalwart and a leader for the foreseeable future, despite the lucrative temptations of Paris.
