Joshua Kimmich has addressed the ongoing debate about the packed football calendar, responding to criticism from other players about the increasing number of matches they are required to play. The Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder voiced his preference for playing frequently, going against the concerns raised by several of his peers who have complained about the toll the tight schedule takes on their health and performance.
🗣️ Joshua Kimmich on the recent criticism from some players that they play too many matches:
"Maybe I'm making myself a bit unpopular, but I like to play a lot of games. In football, there will always be injuries.
I'm one of those players who likes to play all the time and I'm… pic.twitter.com/zLm1jhQCeC
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) October 9, 2024
Kimmich stated: “Maybe I’m making myself a bit unpopular, but I like to play a lot of games. In football, there will always be injuries.” He acknowledged that injuries are part of the game, often being the result of unavoidable accidents rather than the match load itself. The Bayern Munich star went on to emphasize his personal passion for staying on the field as much as possible, adding that he finds it “more fun to be on the pitch” and prefers an “English week” (a week with more than one game) to a normal one.
The German’s statement comes amid a wider debate in the football world, where many players and managers have spoken out about the growing number of fixtures, particularly with the introduction of new competitions and formats. High-profile figures like Manchester City’s Rodri and Barcelona’s Jules Kounde have expressed concerns about how the congested schedule is affecting their recovery time and overall health. Rodri recently mentioned that adding more games leaves players fatigued, while Koundé hinted that a strike could be necessary if things don’t change, echoing concerns voiced by several others.
Kimmich’s remarks contrast sharply with this sentiment, showcasing his love for frequent competition, even as discussions continue regarding player welfare and fixture congestion. However, Kimmich’s outlook could reflect his relatively consistent fitness record, as he has avoided long-term injuries, unlike some of his peers. With Nations League fixtures underway, Kimmich is eager to be on the pitch, highlighting his drive and passion for football despite the increasing concerns about the strain on players.