Kimmich has revealed the simple message from manager Kompany regarding his recent time on the bench, insisting it is a result of “healthy competition” rather than simple squad rotation. The 30-year-old was speaking after the Bavarians’ comfortable 3-0 victory away to Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, a result which maintained their perfect start to the Bundesliga season.
After being benched for two consecutive Bundesliga matches against Hoffenheim and Werder Bremen, Kimmich has returned to the starting lineup for the last two games. Speaking to Sky Germany via Bavarian Football Works, the German international explained the mindset Kompany has instilled in the squad. “The coach also told us: It’s not rotation, it’s competition. A very healthy competition, I think,” Kimmich said. “The players sitting on the bench don’t hope that their competitors play badly. Instead, they simply try to play a bit better themselves when they get a chance. It’s all for the good of the team — and it’s really fun.”
While Kimmich remains a pivotal figure for Bayern, he faces increased competition for his place this season. The emergence of younger talents like Aleksandar Pavlovic and Tom Bischof has provided Kompany with strong alternative options in the centre of the park. Despite his preference for playing every game, Kimmich acknowledges the positive impact of the squad’s depth. “I’m someone who likes being on the pitch every three days,” he added. “But still: It’s special to be part of this team.”
The 3-0 win over Frankfurt, secured with goals from Luis Diaz and Harry Kane, extended Bayern’s flawless start to the campaign. They sit top of the Bundesliga table with a perfect record of 18 points from six matches, having scored an impressive 25 goals and conceded only three. The victory demonstrates that Kompany’s competitive selection policy is paying dividends on the pitch, with the reigning champions looking formidable.
Following the international break, Bayern Munich face their biggest test of the season so far. They will host second-placed Borussia Dortmund in Der Klassiker at the Allianz Arena on Saturday, 18 October. The clash will be a top-of-the-table encounter, with Bayern looking to extend their four-point lead over their arch-rivals and lay down a significant marker in the title race.
