Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich)'s participation in the Club World Cup seems virtually canceled. A prolonged Achilles tendon injury is ultimately hindering his plans to compete.

Bayern and Germany reported on the 14th (Korean time) that "currently, Kim Min-jae has joined the team in Orlando, USA, but it is impossible for him to compete. A return before July seems difficult."

They added, "Kim Min-jae is expected to miss all three matches in the Club World Cup group stage as well as the Round of 16, and his participation in the tournament itself is uncertain."

Kim Min-jae's injury began last October. At that time, an issue arose with his Achilles tendon, but Bayern pushed for his participation despite injuries in the defensive line. Ultimately, he played through pain throughout the season, participating in 43 official matches for a total of 3,593 minutes. Although he continued to play with painkillers, the strenuous schedule led to a decline in performance, and by the end of the season, he became a target of criticism.

In this situation, there has been increased criticism regarding Bayern's player management approach. Fans and local experts pointed out that Kim Min-jae did not receive adequate rest and was overworked. However, the club recently indicated that Kim Min-jae's return is imminent.

Bayern Munich's Director General Max Eberl emphasized at a Club World Cup press conference on the 13th that "Kim Min-jae has slight discomfort in his Achilles tendon. There are criticisms that our club worsened his injury, but that is not true. We have been thoroughly controlling and managing all situations."

He added, "Kim Min-jae requested rest and is expected to resume training within a few days to rejoin the team," providing a positive outlook.

He also mentioned, "When he returns, he will engage in fierce competition on defense with Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Stanisic, and Hiroki Ito."

However, the German football magazine Kicker countered Eberl's statements, offering a more pessimistic outlook. Kicker noted, "It will not be easy for Kim Min-jae to return even in July," raising the possibility that his return could be delayed further.

Head Coach Hong Myung-bo also expressed concerns about this situation early on. During the national team's training call in March, Coach Hong said, "Kim Min-jae is a key player for both Bayern and the national team. However, it is regrettable that his club did not protect him as a preventive measure." He added, "The warning signs of Kim Min-jae's injury have been present for a long time, and ultimately the national team has had to compete without him in important matches."

Meanwhile, Bayern's decision to include Kim Min-jae in the Club World Cup roster despite his inability to compete continues to spark controversy. As of now, it remains uncertain when Kim Min-jae will be able to fully return to form.

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