Bayern denies overworking Kim Min-jae amid transfer speculation and injury issues

The Bayern Munich leadership clearly drew a line regarding the controversy surrounding Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich).

Director General Max Eberl noted on the 13th (Korean time) through the German media outlet 'Sky Sports' that Kim Min-jae, who has been experiencing discomfort in his Achilles tendon, is currently recovering and is expected to join training soon. He stated, 'Once he returns, competition in the defensive line will begin in earnest. The composition of our defense will become even stronger. Kim Min-jae must survive in that competition.'

He also emphasized, seemingly aware of the ongoing controversy about Kim Min-jae's overuse this season, 'We have never intentionally worsened Kim Min-jae's condition.'

Kim Min-jae has participated in 43 official matches during the 2024-2025 season. He played 27 matches in the Bundesliga, scoring 2 goals, and in the UEFA Champions League, he scored 1 goal in 13 matches. He also participated in 3 matches in the DFB-Pokal. He played as a starting defender throughout the season and played a key role in Bayern reaching the top of the league.

However, he experienced problems with his Achilles tendon in the second half of the season, causing his performance to waver. Frequent defensive mistakes began to surface. Local fans and media directed heavy criticism toward Kim Min-jae. Speculation about his transfer also began around this time.

Bayern only allowed Kim Min-jae to rest after confirming the Bundesliga championship. Until then, they continued to use him despite injury concerns. There were ongoing criticisms locally that Kim Min-jae had been overused, but Eberl strongly refuted this, stating, 'We have never harmed his health.'

Meanwhile, activities surrounding Kim Min-jae in the transfer market are active. Since the end of the season, Bayern has publicly hinted at the possibility of selling Kim Min-jae, though a clear destination has yet to be established.

It is reported that clubs leveraging the financial power of Saudi Arabia are actively pursuing Kim Min-jae's acquisition. The Saudi media outlet 'Al Marsad Sports' reported, 'Al Nassr has secured the transfer fee of 50 million euros (approximately 78.7 billion won) requested by Bayern for Kim Min-jae.'

For now, Kim Min-jae has entered the United States to participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup according to the team's schedule. Bayern has been drawn into Group C along with Auckland City (Australia), Boca Juniors (Argentina), and Benfica (Portugal).

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