Minjae Kim seems like a different player. After a mixed debut season, Bayern’s central defender is once once more showing signs of being a defensive powerhouse.
Munich – Minjae Kim is different, both in appearance and on the field. The South Korean arrived at the start of FC Bayern’s preseason training with a short haircut. The central defender has also impressed with his straightforward demeanor during training.
FC Bayern’s defensive monster is back – bosses are delighted
This is well-received by Vincent Kompany. The former defensive star and new Munich coach even enthusiastically cheered for a tackle by Kim last Wednesday. He also stands out by giving instructions in German.
The bosses, who closely monitor the team, are also very positive regarding Kim at the moment. tz-Information understands that the sentiment in the executive suite is: The hungry defense monster is back.
Minjae Kim (left) has impressed so far in FC Bayern’s preseason preparations. © IMAGO/Frank Hoermann/SVEN SIMON
After an uncertain second half of the season: Kim wants to make a fresh start at FCB
As the best defender in Serie A, Kim (contract until 2028) moved from then Italian champions Naples to FC Bayern last summer for a fixed transfer fee of 42 million euros. In the first half of last season, the South Korean was still a regular under Thomas Tuchel. After his return from the Asian Cup, however, the controversial ex-coach unexpectedly benched Kim. This led to uncertainty and mistakes.
After a mixed debut season, Kim now wants to make a fresh start at FC Bayern. He is ready to fight for his place in the starting lineup. Compared to last summer, the defensive star is more rested and fitter. Back then, the South Korean lost a lot of weight during the military’s mandatory three-week basic training.
Olise is also tied up until 2029: That is how long the contracts of Kane, Kimmich, Müller and Co. run.
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Minjae Kim helps Hiroki Ito settle into life in Bayern
Since returning from vacation, he also seems happier and more open compared to the disappointing end of the 2023/24 season. After training, he diligently signs autographs and fulfills fans‘ photo requests. Kim (27) even helps the Japanese newcomer Hiroki Ito (25), who moved from Stuttgart to Munich, to settle in.
In Asian culture, it is common for older individuals to support younger ones. The two were seen together in the city center, where Ito is currently staying at the luxurious Bayerischer Hof hotel. The new Kim is not only focused on himself but also wants to support his colleagues. (Philipp Kessler)
Minjae Kim: Back to his Defensive Best at FC Bayern?
Minjae Kim seems like a changed man – both in appearance and performance. After a difficult debut season, Bayern’s central defender is back to his defensive monster ways.
Munich – Minjae Kim has made a transformation – both physically and on the field. The South Korean showed up for FC Bayern’s preseason training with a short haircut and a fresh look. His straightforward demeanor has also impressed during training.
FC Bayern’s Defensive Monster is Back – Bosses are Delighted
This newfound focus is not going unnoticed. New Bayern coach, Vincent Kompany – a former defensive star himself – has even been shouting encouragement for Kim’s tackles. He’s also noticeable for giving instructions in German.
The Bayern bosses, who are closely observing the training sessions, are equally impressed by Kim’s recent performance. tz-Information sources report that the sentiment within the executive suite is: “The hungry defense monster is back.”
Minjae Kim (left) has impressed so far in FC Bayern’s preseason preparations. © IMAGO/Frank Hoermann/SVEN SIMON
After an Uncertain Second Half of the Season: Kim Wants to Make a Fresh Start at FCB
Kim, who signed a contract until 2028, was brought to Bayern from Napoli, the then Italian champions, last summer for a fee of 42 million euros. He was considered one of the best defenders in Serie A. In the first half of last season, Kim was a regular starter under Thomas Tuchel. However, following returning from the Asian Cup, the controversial former coach unexpectedly benched him, creating uncertainty and resulting in occasional errors.
After a mixed debut season, Kim is aiming for a fresh start at FC Bayern. He is determined to fight for his spot in the starting lineup. Unlike last summer, he is more rested and physically fit. In 2023, his mandatory three-week military basic training caused him to lose considerable weight.
Olise is also Tied up until 2029: That is how long the Contracts of Kane, Kimmich, Müller and Co. run.
View photo gallery
Minjae Kim Helps Hiroki Ito Settle into Life in Bayern
Since returning from his home country following the summer break, Kim appears to be happier and more approachable than he was during the disappointing 2023/24 season finale. After training, he diligently signs autographs and fulfills photo requests from fans. The 27-year-old Kim is also extending his support to the Japanese newcomer Hiroki Ito (25), who recently joined Bayern from Stuttgart.
In Asian culture, it’s common for older individuals to offer guidance and assistance to younger ones. Kim and Ito have been spotted together in the city center, where Ito is currently staying at the luxury Bayerischer Hof hotel. The new Kim is not only focused on his own performance, but is also keen on supporting his teammates. (Philipp Kessler)
