Early winter exit? Bayern star fears missing the World Cup | OneFootball

At FC Bayern, movement in defense seems likely during the winter break. Minjae Kim is particularly in focus—the South Korean is fighting for his future on Säbener Straße. An early departure cannot be ruled out.

The center-back is currently getting little playing time under Vincent Kompany. While Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah form the first-choice duo at the heart of defense, Kim is mostly left with the role of challenger. It’s a situation that is increasingly becoming a burden for the ambitious South Korean.

According to transfer insider Matteo Moretto, a move for Kim in January could become a concrete topic if his sporting situation does not change decisively by then. Several clubs in Italy are said to be monitoring the 28-year-old’s situation closely—a potential winter transfer cannot be ruled out.

Kim fighting for minutes—World Cup in the summer as a pressure factor

Photo: IMAGO

A key factor in Kim’s future planning is the upcoming World Cup in summer 2026. The center-back is a fixed part of the South Korean national team but needs regular minutes to secure his place in the squad. If he continues to languish on the record champions’ bench, it could jeopardize his role with the national team—a risk Kim wants to avoid, according to Moretto.

Bayern are aware of this issue. Within the club, there is conviction that Kim remains valuable from a sporting perspective. Nevertheless, the following applies: if the defender’s situation does not improve by the winter break, a departure—at least on loan—could be up for discussion.

There was already speculation about a move in the summer. kicker reported at the time that FC Bayern would only have been willing to talk for an exceptionally high offer. Inter Milan had shown interest but waited to see movement in their own defense. With no replacement available, Kim stayed in Munich—also because Kompany wanted to rely on continuity.

Injury woes and competition hinder Kim’s development

Compounding matters is Kim’s injury history. After persistent Achilles tendon problems, he fought his way back in the summer, only to be sidelined again recently. These setbacks prevent him from building rhythm and consistency over a longer period.

Despite good flashes in his appearances, the reality remains: as long as Tah and Upamecano are fit, Kim currently has little chance of a starting spot. Both are delivering consistently strong performances, further intensifying the competition.

Upamecano’s situation is interesting in this context. The Frenchman is on the verge of a contract extension in Munich—however, negotiations are proving difficult. If FCB fail to reach an agreement in the talks with Upamecano, it could have direct consequences for Kim.

A possible departure or uncertain future for the Frenchman would suddenly catapult Kim back into a key role. Conversely, an extension could further worsen his prospects.

For Bayern decision-makers Max Eberl and Christoph Freund, one thing is clear: in the coming weeks it will be decided whether Kim remains part of long-term plans—or whether a new door opens in the winter.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.