Bayern Munich's key player Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) has already been pushed to the back.

Bayern Munich defeated New Zealand's Auckland City 10-0 in the first match of Group C in the FIFA Club World Cup, held on the 16th at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. Munich will face Boca Juniors in the second match on the 21st.

Jamal Musiala recorded a hat trick. Kingsley Coman, Thomas Müller, and Michael Olise also scored multiple goals.

Kim Min-jae is unable to play yet due to an Achilles injury. He has joined the team locally in the U.S. without being able to fully focus on recovery in Europe. It would be better for Kim Min-jae to concentrate on rehabilitation to perform properly next season. Bayern included Kim Min-jae on the trip to the U.S. in case of any unforeseen participation, even though he is not at 100%.

Jonathan Tah, signed from Bayer Leverkusen, started as the starting center-back in his debut match, replacing Kim Min-jae and played the full time. Tah, a member of Leverkusen's unbeaten championship squad, was brought in to replace Kim Min-jae. Currently, Kim Min-jae is unable to participate due to his Achilles injury.

In his introductory press conference with Bayern, Tah noted, 'The matches against Bayern were the toughest since my time at Leverkusen. I primarily played in a four-back formation against Bayern. Now, it doesn’t matter whether I play in a three-back or four-back. Whether I go out as a center-back or a left/right full-back, it doesn’t matter,' solidifying his position as a key player already.

The club is also fully supporting Tah. German media reported, 'If Kim Min-jae stays with Bayern next season, he should expect to be on the bench. Tah is a strong candidate for the main spot. Either Upamecano or Kim Min-jae should be prepared to be sidelined.'

Reports have emerged that Bayern is excluding Kim Min-jae from their plans for next season and is focused on transferring him. Santiago Aouna from 'Foot Mercato' reported on the 18th, 'Bayern is willing to allow Kim Min-jae's transfer for 30 million euros (approximately 47.5 billion won), a far lower amount than the 50 million euros they spent to acquire him,' raising the likelihood of a transfer.

Many clubs are reportedly interested in Kim Min-jae. Aouna noted, 'Kim Min-jae is open to a transfer to Saudi Arabia. He would welcome a new challenge. It would also greatly benefit Bayern's finances. Aside from Al Nassr, Liverpool, AC Milan, Chelsea, Juventus, and Newcastle are interested in Kim Min-jae. PSG's Director General Luis Campos also met with Kim Min-jae's agent two weeks ago.'

[OSEN]