By SABC Sport
29th April 2024
Amidst the speculation, Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich, who shares a history with Rangnick from their time at RB Leipzig, has expressed confidence in Rangnick's coaching abilities.
With the departure of Xabi Alonso and Julian Nagelsmann from the coaching equation, the spotlight has shifted to Rangnick, currently leading the charge as Austria's head coach. Known for his tactical prowess and managerial acumen, Rangnick's potential appointment as Bayern Munich's new coach has garnered significant attention within the footballing world.
For Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich, Rangnick's familiarity stems from their shared past at RB Leipzig, where Kimmich was brought under Rangnick's wings during his tenure as the club's sporting director.
Reflecting on their time together in an interview carried by Munich newspaper TZ, Kimmich spoke highly of Rangnick's influence on his career trajectory.
"I think he's capable of anything if you look at his past - and what he's done and achieved in his previous job. He was extremely important for me because he brought me to Leipzig in the third league," Kimmich remarked, highlighting Rangnick's pivotal role in his development.
Kimmich's admiration for Rangnick extends beyond personal anecdotes. Speaking of Rangnick's coaching prowess, Kimmich shared insights from his peers. "When I came to Bayern, Ralf Rangnick had taken over as coach in Leipzig and I still had a lot of contact with the team. They all said he was a great coach, regardless of his tactical ideas."
In contemplating his future at Bayern amid the coaching transition, Kimmich emphasized the significance of club allegiance over individual coaching preferences. "For me as a player, the most important thing is the club, not just the coach," he asserted, underscoring the broader context of team dynamics.
Meanwhile, Rangnick's credentials precede him, earning him the moniker of the 'godfather of gegenpressing' for his innovative tactical approach. With an illustrious coaching career spanning various German clubs, including notable stints at Schalke, Hoffenheim, and RB Leipzig, Rangnick's potential arrival at Bayern marks a significant chapter in the club's history.
As Bayern navigate the coaching transition, Kimmich's contract status looms in the backdrop, with his current deal set to expire in 2025. Amidst the uncertainties, Kimmich remains focused on his commitment to the club's success, irrespective of the coaching landscape.
As Bayern's Champions League journey unfold, the looming presence of Rangnick adds an extra layer of intrigue to the club's pursuit of European glory. With the semi-final clash against Real Madrid looming large on Tuesday, Bayern's faithful await eagerly to see if Rangnick will lead them into a new era of triumph in 2025.