Joshua Kimmich is the versatile, veteran leader of Germany

Stuttgart, Germany - March 30: Joshua Kimmich of Germany gestures during the international friendly match between Germany and Ghana at MHP Arena on March 30, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images Master of Puppets Joshua Kimmich remains one of the most intelligent and influential midfielders in the game. Though, as of now it looks like the veteran will be lining up at right back for Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann.

As the tactical anchor for Bayern Munich, Kimmich pulls the strings for Bayern Munich’s vaunted attack as he continues to dictate matches through tempo control, precise distribution, and leadership. During the 2025-26 season, he has once again been among the Bundesliga’s most consistent performers, contributing both creatively and structurally to Bayern’s dominance. The biggest question surrounding Kimmich might actually be if he can play right back at the same level he did in the past.

No longer a spring chicken, Kimmich has racked up some mileage over the years and dealing with today’s wingers could be a tall task for a guy who does not play the position regularly. Oh Captain, My Captain At Bayern, Kimmich is the metronome, controlling possession, breaking lines, and organizing play from deep. For Germany, his role includes the formal designation of being captain.

For Germany, his role has shifted between midfield and defense, occasionally disrupting rhythm. Despite this, he remains the emotional and tactical leader, tasked with stabilizing a transitioning national side. Germany has scuffled to find an adequate right back, so Kimmich has had to man the position.