Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) has to play under pressure again.
Bayern Munich will face Inter Milan in the first leg of the quarterfinals of the 2024-25 season Champions League at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, on the morning of the 9th.
Currently, Munich's squad is devastated due to injuries. Particularly, the injuries in the defensive line are serious. Wingback Alphonso Davies has been confirmed to be out for the season due to a knee ligament injury. Kim Min-jae's partner Dayot Upamecano cannot play due to cartilage damage. Hiroki Ito is sidelined for at least three months due to thigh pain.
Even Manuel Neuer, the mental pillar of Munich and goalkeeper, missed the last training session due to injury. Wingman Kingsley Coman (foot injury) and midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović are also doubtful for the match against Inter Milan.
Ultimately, Kim Min-jae, who has a problematic Achilles tendon, must play under pressure. His partner is Eric Dier, who made a major mistake in the last match.
Even Jamal Musiala is unwell. Veteran Thomas Müller, who recently had his contract renewal fail, is likely to play in his place.
Kim Min-jae is not in top form either. He has been playing through Achilles pain since October last year. On top of that, he has recently been experiencing back issues and a cold. Nevertheless, due to the team's situation, which is on the verge of defensive collapse, Kim Min-jae cannot rest and continues to play.
On the 5th against Augsburg, Kim Min-jae compensated for Dier's major mistake. During the second half, with Bayern leading 3-1, Kim Min-jae managed to avert a scoring crisis. Dier made a mistake during the defensive process that allowed the opponent a chance in front of the goal. Kim Min-jae quickly intervened to block the shot, performing crucial defense.
An angry Kim Min-jae showed his leadership by gesturing to his fellow defenders to focus. That day, Kim Min-jae recorded a passing accuracy of 94% (77 attempts). He also won 3 out of 5 aerial duels. With 1 interception, 4 clearances, and 1 successful tackle, Kim Min-jae showcased his exceptional defensive skills.
How much longer will they have to sacrifice Kim Min-jae in order to keep playing? Even Bayern Munich, which is formidable, is not in a position of ease. Moreover, Kim Min-jae, with experience as a Serie A champion, is a player recognized for his abilities, having received calls from Inter Milan.
Kim Min-jae's strong performance is essential for the Champions League victory. Kim Min-jae bears the fate of Munich.
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