Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) was excluded from the final season celebration.
Bayern Munich recently confirmed early victory in the Bundesliga and held a public training session at the club level. The tradition of 'Guard of Honor' continued, with players and coaching staff entering to applause, and training scenes were shared live with fans through the club's social media and official channels. Kim Min-jae did not appear at the event, which was attended by key figures such as Kane, Müller, Davies, and Dier.
The day held more significance than just a training session. It was part of a victory celebration with fans and club staff, sharing a symbolic moment for the team. Kim Min-jae's absence was a scene that could not easily be overlooked, as he had participated in 43 matches this season and recorded the second-most playing time among field players on the team.
Similar scenes had occurred previously. Kim Min-jae was also absent from the commemorative video and thumbnail image released immediately after Bayern Munich confirmed their victory. This video quickly spread among fans worldwide, and some fans raised questions, asking, 'Why is Kim Min-jae the only one missing?' Some voices pointed out racial discrimination, leading the club to belatedly change the images and highlight Kim Min-jae in a separate post.
However, another controversy erupted during this process. The expression 'the first Korean winner in the Bundesliga' was criticized for ignoring Jung Woo-young's preceding record. At this point, it is hard to see it as just a simple mistake. Of course, Kim Min-jae has ended his season early due to Achilles tendon and foot pain.
The news outlet TZ reported, 'New coach candidate Vincent Kompany wishes to give Kim Min-jae sufficient recovery time.' However, this contrasts sharply with the transfer targets and other injured players who appeared at the event, regardless of their physical condition. Among fans, there are evaluations that 'this is not just a simple rest, but distance.' Kim Min-jae played while receiving painkillers until mid-season.
In particular, there were times when Kim Min-jae stood alone while other defenders were injured. He played 27 matches and logged 3,593 minutes, which ranks among the top records for defenders in the Bundesliga. Despite his dedication when the team was in crisis, he continues to be excluded from the end-of-season commemorative photos, public content, and fan interaction events.
The atmosphere is gradually becoming subtle. Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany reported, 'Bayern Munich will consider releasing Kim Min-jae if a bid of 50 million euros (78.6 billion won) or more comes in.' In fact, rumors suggest that Chelsea, Newcastle, and Juventus have contacted Kim Min-jae's representatives. Given the current situation, the possibility of a transfer this summer is certainly not low.
Kim Min-jae lifted the Scudetto with Napoli last season and experienced the Bundesliga championship with Bayern Munich this season. He has now stood at the top of the five major leagues in Europe twice. However, the memory of this victory is not entirely pleasant. Though there was dedication and contribution, the cameras and spotlight passed him by.
Bayern's neglect contrasts with his victory at Napoli. During the Napoli championship, Kim Min-jae was highly regarded and received loud cheers, but this time he was excluded. While one might attribute it to injury or fitness issues, it reveals how Bayern perceives Kim Min-jae's contributions.
Due to Bayern's reckless treatment, there are concerns that the legend Kim Min-jae may indeed depart.
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