Min-jae Kim (29, Bayern Munich) will not participate in the remaining matches of the 2024-2025 season.
The German media outlet 'TZ' reported on the 8th (Korea time) that "Head Coach Vincent Kompany has ruled out Min-jae Kim's participation for the remainder of the season. He is dealing with injuries to his Achilles tendon and foot. Bayern Munich currently has only two Bundesliga matches left."
It was noted that "Min-jae Kim is scheduled to begin preparing for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will be held in the U.S. this June," adding, "As there has been an increase in injuries to Dayo Upamecano and Hiroki Ito, along with the transfer of Eric Dier, his presence remains crucial."
The Bayern-oriented media outlet 'Bavarian Football' stated, "Min-jae Kim has poured everything into the team. He persevered through a challenging season quietly," while expressing disappointment over the club's handling of the situation.
The media criticized, "Min-jae Kim endured an extremely tough season but did not even receive a 'not for sale' declaration. This incident serves as a lesson that no matter how hard a player tries, the club does not compensate them."
Min-jae Kim played in 43 official matches this season, scoring three goals. Despite injuries continuing since October last year, he was unable to secure recovery time amid the team's numerous injuries. Repeated premature returns meant that his physical condition was slow to recover.
Nevertheless, he managed to log 2,289 minutes in the league, 232 minutes in the DFB-Pokal, and 1,074 minutes in the Champions League, totaling 3,595 minutes. Additionally, he played six matches totaling 540 minutes as a national representative.
The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) also expressed concerns. FIFPro pointed out, "Min-jae Kim's case is a clear warning. If players must endure an excessive schedule as they currently do, they will remain exposed to long-term injury risks."
Despite this dedication, Min-jae Kim was not protected within the team. The club has left the door open for a transfer possibility. Florian Plettenberg, a reporter specializing in Bayern news, reported that "If an appropriate offer comes in, Min-jae Kim may leave the team this summer."
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