Precautionary measure for Kimmich: Bayern star misses training | OneFootball

FC Bayern is worried about Joshua Kimmich ahead of the toughest test of their preseason so far. The defensive midfielder was absent from Thursday’s final training session ahead of the match against Aston Villa. However, the Munich club says it’s purely a precautionary measure.

Following their 2-1 victory over Jeju SK, FC Bayern faces its first real test of the summer preseason against Europa League champion Aston Villa. Coach Vincent Kompany had already announced that he would gradually increase the workload for his players returning from the World Cup. Now, however, the Belgian may have to do without Joshua Kimmich just before the match in Hong Kong.

As the record champions reported, the 31-year-old did not take part in the final training session due to minor adductor issues.

Bayern is taking a cautious approach with Kimmich

According to the club, the break from training is purely a precautionary measure. With the start of competitive play approaching, club officials do not want to take any risks.

In just over two weeks, the first competitive match of the new season—the Franz Beckenbauer Super Cup against Borussia Dortmund—is on the schedule. Accordingly, Kompany is unlikely to unnecessarily strain a slightly injured key player in a friendly match.

It remains to be seen whether Kimmich will be able to play against Aston Villa on Friday.

Ndiaye also has to take it easy

In addition to Kimmich, Bara Sapoko Ndiaye was also absent from team training. The 18-year-old midfield prospect is dealing with a bruised knee and is also expected to miss the match against Aston Villa.

FC Bayern’s roster is already incomplete. Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Dayot Upamecano are still on special leave following their participation in the World Cup and will not rejoin the team until after the Asian tour.

For Kompany, therefore, managing the players’ workload remains a top priority. Already after the match against Jeju SK, the Bayern coach had announced that he would gradually increase the playing time of the national team players. The clear focus is on having as many key players as possible fit and available for the Super Cup and the Bundesliga opener.