Joshua Kimmich's Departure from Bayern Munich Is a Fact. The German midfielder, whose contract ends at the end of the season, will not renew and will leave as a free agent.
For months, FC Barcelona has closely followed his situation. Hansi Flick, who managed him in Germany, had him on his wish list. Even during Xavi Hernández's tenure, the club reached an agreement with the player.
But now, when Kimmich could arrive for free, Barça has decided to reject his signing. The reason has surprised everyone.
Kimmich, A Luxury Signing That Barça Says No To
The German midfielder is one of the best in the world in his position. He combines quality, leadership, and versatility. His ability to recover balls and at the same time organize the game makes him a very complete footballer.
He would fit perfectly at Barça. Not only because the team needs a pivot but because Flick knows his strengths well. Additionally, being a free agent, his signing wouldn't involve a significant transfer expense.
However, despite all these advantages, the club has made a clear decision: not to sign him.
Barça Rejects Kimmich: The Bet on Young Talent
The reason Barça has ruled out Kimmich is not economic. Nor is it due to his performance. The major surprise is that the club already has a plan for the pivot position.
Hansi Flick has decided to bet on the youth academy. Specifically, on a player who is recovering from an injury but has the necessary talent to be the future of the culé midfield.
Barça fully trusts Marc Bernal, the young 17-year-old midfielder. His evolution in the lower categories has been spectacular. Before getting injured, he was in the first-team dynamic, and the club believes it's time to give him confidence.
Barça's Big Bet
Marc Bernal suffered a serious knee injury in the third matchday of LaLiga during a game against Rayo Vallecano. Since then, he has worked on his recovery with the goal of being 100% next season.
The club believes he has the ideal profile to be the midfielder of the future. His tactical intelligence, his ability to steal balls, and his good game output make him a long-term bet.
That's why Barça rules out signing Kimmich. They prefer to give minutes and continuity to Bernal instead of bringing in a more experienced player who could hinder his progression.
Kimmich, Without a Clear Destination
The decision hasn't been easy. Kimmich was a great market opportunity, but Flick is clear that he doesn't want to hinder young talents.
The German coach believes Bernal can become an elite pivot. Although his injury has delayed his growth, the club is convinced he can take on responsibilities in the first team.
The board also sees an economic advantage in this bet. Betting on the youth academy allows avoiding unnecessary expenses, which provides room to strengthen other more priority positions.
With Barça out of the equation, Joshua Kimmich's future remains in the air. Several European clubs are interested in signing him, including Manchester City, PSG, and Juventus.
The German will have many options, but his dream of playing at Barça is ruled out. Meanwhile, at Camp Nou, the confidence in Marc Bernal is total.
Barça has spoken: the future lies in the youth academy.