Joshua Kimmich Injury Status Complicates Bayern Munich's Match Plans

Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich is currently sidelined due to tendonitis, having been substituted in the first half of a recent match against Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite the injury, Kimmich is aiming to be fit for an upcoming Bundesliga match against VfB Stuttgart, although the team is cautious given their Champions League fixture against Bayer Leverkusen next week. Concurrently, Kimmich is in the final stages of negotiating a contract extension that would keep him at Bayern until at least 2028, with a substantial pay rise making him one of the club's top earners. Reports indicate that Kimmich, who has been negotiating without an agent, is expected to finalize the deal soon, reflecting his significant role in the squad. Head coach Vincent Kompany remains optimistic about the team's depth, having options like Leon Goretzka and João Palhinha to fill in during Kimmich's absence. Bayern's management is focused on maintaining their lead in the Bundesliga while preparing for critical matches ahead.