Premature farewell? Bayern star Minjae Kim speaks out | OneFootball

Minjae Kim comments on transfer rumors – the Bayern defender makes it clear where his future lies

Minjae Kim was once regarded as FC Bayern’s new „defensive monster“ when the Munich club signed the South Korean from Napoli for around €50 million in the summer of 2023. Today, there is little left of that role. Under Vincent Kompany, Kim has to settle for a reserve role, while Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano dominate the center of defense almost without competition

The duo have developed into one of the most stable central defensive pairings in Europe in recent months. Kim’s only current role is as first backup – and little is likely to change in the medium term as long as Tah and Upamecano maintain their form. Accordingly, speculation about a possible departure of the 29-year-old from Säbener Straße has recently increased

As early as the summer of 2025, reports were doing the rounds that FC Bayern would be willing to talk to him if a suitable offer was made. In the current transfer window, big-name suitors have once again emerged, including Chelsea FC and AC Milan. However, Kim himself has little sympathy for these ideas

Kim clarifies: „The thought of a transfer never crossed my mind“

photo: IMAGO

During a visit to a Bayern fan club, the South Korean international took the opportunity to take a stand for the first time – and with surprisingly clear words. „The thought of a transfer never crossed my mind,“ explained Kim, putting a clear stop to all transfer rumours

The central defender also emphasized how comfortable he feels in Munich, saying that the club has given him a warm welcome since his arrival and that there are many things that suit him both on a sporting and personal level. His goals for 2026 are clearly defined: winning the treble with FC Bayern, continuing to establish himself and always being ready when he is needed

Future question remains open despite commitment

As clear as Kim’s words may sound, his situation remains a delicate one in sporting terms. If nothing changes in his role until the summer and he continues to sit mainly on the bench, an open discussion between club and player is likely to be inevitable. With a reported annual salary of 15 to 16 million euros, Kim is one of the higher earners in the squad – a factor that should not be underestimated in squad planning

Especially as the South Korean’s contract runs until 2028. One thing is clear: Kim is not thinking of leaving in the short term. However, as is so often the case at FC Bayern, the sporting perspective will ultimately decide whether the clear commitment will turn into a long-term future together.