Julian Nagelsmann should move Joshua Kimmich into midfield

STUTTGART, GERMANY - MARCH 30: Joshua Kimmich of Germany reacts during the international friendly match between Germany and Ghana at MHP Arena on March 30, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by EyesWideOpen/Getty Images) | Getty Images Recent reports indicate that Julian Nagelsmann has decided on a midfield pivot of Aleksander Pavlović and either Leon Goretzka or another more defensive option. While many fans will cheer in joy to hear that Nagelsmann has opted for Pavlović, there is still skepticism surrounding appointing Goretzka to the second spot in the midfield pivot.

While Anton Stach massively impressed in his brief appearance in the March international break, there is still another intriguing option that is not being discussed enough. Ever since Nagelsmann appointed Joshua Kimmich as Germany’s starting right-back, that decision has seemingly come to a close. However, Kimmich has not excelled in this role with the national team in recent years and has felt like more of a decisions surrounding a lack of other right-back options.

It made fine sense for the time being, but that has perhaps changed in recent months. David Raum has emerged over the past two years as the clear left-back for Germany, but Nathaniel Brown’s inspiring performance against Ghana proved that he is talented enough to play a large role in this team. A possible proposition is for Nathaniel Brown to start at right-back and slide Kimmich back into his natural position in midfield.

This allows Raum and Brown to excel at full-back positions and remove the uncertainty in midfield. Not only will this enable the best talent on the pitch, but it will unlock a world-class midfield with top chemistry between Pavlović and Kimmich. As most of the chatter around the national team has been focused on the starting striker and the debate between Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sané, and Jamie Leweling for the final spot in attack, this potential move could transform Germany.