Can Kim Min-jae write a legend? The possibility of a unique record challenge has opened up.
On the 11th (Korean time), Philip Kessler, a journalist from the UK 'Daily Mail', reported, "FC Barcelona is aiming to sign Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich and Dayot Upamecano. They are considering an early transfer," adding, "Barcelona highly values Kim Min-jae's style as part of its defensive reinforcement."
Rumors of Kim Min-jae's departure have become one of the hottest issues in the summer transfer market. When Kim Min-jae transferred from Napoli to Munich in the summer of 2023, expectations were high. His bold forward buildup and overwhelming physicality were perceived as assets that would also work in the Bundesliga.
However, the reality was different. Under manager Thomas Tuchel, Kim Min-jae struggled with tactical mismatches. Tuchel preferred stable line control and possession-based football, which contrasted sharply with Kim Min-jae's aggressive style. After several mistakes, Tuchel publicly criticized Kim Min-jae and even favored Eric Dier more.
After Tuchel's departure, the newly appointed manager Vincent Kompany actively utilized Kim Min-jae, marking him as a key defensive player. However, due to injuries among existing defensive resources, Kim Min-jae had to play under excessive strain until the end of the season. Ultimately, he faced Achilles tendon pain but dedicated himself to the team until the end. As a result, Munich lifted the Bundesliga trophy, ending the season on a high note.
However, the club returned the favor with neglect. Despite being a key figure in winning the Bundesliga, Munich classified Kim Min-jae as a sale target. This was evidenced by the signing of Jonathan Tah and ongoing efforts to bring in another center-back. According to German media outlet 'Bild', if Kim Min-jae leaves in the summer transfer market, it has been reported that Chelsea is eyeing Renato Veiga as a replacement.
Moreover, the club is exerting pressure through interviews. Bayern's Director General Max Eberl also noted, "Kim Min-jae is expected to remain with the team until after the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. After that, we will evaluate the situation," leaving the possibility of transfer open. After being eliminated in the quarterfinals of the Club World Cup, Bayern is virtually pushed back to seek the sale of Kim Min-jae.
Another club has emerged: Barcelona. The reigning league champions are focusing on a defensive overhaul. Kessler, a journalist from the Mail known for covering Bayern, reported that "Barcelona is showing initial interest in Upamecano and Kim Min-jae."
Kessler added, "Barcelona has determined that reinforcement in defense is urgent at this point; director general Deco highly values the pressing ability and passing development skills of both players." Hans Flick, the manager, also emphasizes a style focused on front pressing, making Bayern's two defenders fitting resources for his strategy.
However, serious acquisition efforts are still on hold. For Barcelona to seriously pursue one of the two players, the transfer of starting defender Ronald Araújo must precede. The Mail reported, "Only if Araújo leaves the team can Barcelona proceed with executing the transfers for Upamecano or Kim Min-jae," considering both the financial situation and squad composition.
In fact, Bayern has already turned cold towards Kim Min-jae. With Renato Veiga marked as a potential replacement, Kim Min-jae has been pushed into the 'transfer candidate' category. However, a crisis soon became an opportunity. The prestigious team Barcelona reached out to Kim Min-jae. Now, what remains is the transfer of Araújo. If that condition is met, Kim Min-jae can leave ungrateful Munich and be reborn as a central defender of a true noble club.
Moreover, if Kim Min-jae dons the Barcelona jersey, he will mark a symbolic milestone of conquering the top three leagues in Europe. Kim Min-jae led Napoli to their first championship in 33 years by playing 33 matches in the 2022-2023 Serie A season and was selected for the season's best eleven and as the Serie A Defender of the Year, creating a sensation.
Furthermore, Kim Min-jae, who transferred to Bayern Munich for the 2023-2024 season, contributed to the team's Bundesliga championship despite overcoming heavy use last season. He is the only player who has already won in two of the five major leagues in Europe. If he performs at an elite level in La Liga, he will achieve the monumental record of being the first Asian player to conquer Serie A, Bundesliga, and La Liga.
Beyond winning, there has yet to be an Asian player who has excelled in three of the five major leagues in Europe. Son Heung-min, a symbol of Asian football, also centers his career on Germany and England. If Kim Min-jae can thrive as a starter in La Liga and lift a trophy, he will reach the pinnacle of being evaluated as 'the best defender in Asian history.' At this moment, Kim Min-jae stands at that historic first step.
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