Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) is increasingly facing uncertainty in his position. With the potential addition of German national team defender Jonathan Tah (29, Bayer Leverkusen), Kim Min-jae is at risk of being pushed to the bench.
The media reported on the 28th (Korean time) that 'Bayern Munich has earmarked Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano as the primary center-back duo for the next season. Internally, they are also evaluated as a 'top duo' that can complement each other.'
If Tah's transfer is officially confirmed, it essentially means that Kim Min-jae will fall behind in the competition for a starting position. Additionally, just after this report, Bayern confirmed the acquisition of Jonathan Tah on the 29th.
The media further noted that 'Kim Min-jae and Josip Stanisic are classified as backup center-backs. Hiroki Ito is in a situation that requires a long rehabilitation,' clarifying Kim Min-jae's declining rank within the current squad. Furthermore, Bayern is likely to adjust its transfer market strategy based on Kim Min-jae's situation.
According to the report, 'The club stated that it is willing to consider a transfer if a suitable offer for Kim Min-jae comes in.'
This scenario is entirely different from when Kim Min-jae was transferred to Bayern. In the summer of 2023, Bayern activated Kim Min-jae's release clause from Napoli (€50 million) and successfully completed the transfer, showing expectations by assigning him a starting position from the early part of the season. However, as his playing time decreased in the latter half of the season, along with criticisms over his lack of stamina and errors, the situation changed dramatically.
The issue lies with Kim Min-jae's playing style. He is a type of player who maintains his match rhythm and confidence through consistent play. A backup role is a scenario that was never part of the original plans for both Kim Min-jae and Bayern.
The start of the 2024-2025 season was not bad. With the departure of coach Thomas Tuchel, Vincent Kompany implemented a tactical approach that suited Kim Min-jae, allowing him to perform as a stable starting player.
The problem was Kim Min-jae's physical condition. It has been reported that he has had issues with his Achilles tendon since October of last year. Even in the midst of injuries, all his center-back teammates were sidelined with more severe injuries, and ultimately, Kim Min-jae continued to play as a starter. As fatigue gradually accumulated, mistakes began to emerge that had not occurred previously, and local German media focused on articles that undermined Kim Min-jae's abilities.
Kim Min-jae's future now hinges on Bayern's decision and the trends of the summer transfer market. If he is not included in the club's plans for the next season, a transfer could become a necessity rather than just an option.
Meanwhile, on the 29th, Bayern officially announced that 'Tah has left Leverkusen to join Bayern as a free agent, with a contract running until June 30, 2029. Tah will wear the number 4 jersey while playing for the German champions Bayern.'
According to the club's announcement, Tah expressed, 'I am very happy to have come to Bayern. I want to train hard every day with responsibility and strive for the team's success. I want to lift many trophies together.'
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