Bayern Munich: Top five success stories of the season

Joshua Kimmich-  Engine in central midfield for Bayern Munich

Along with central defence, Bayern was also looking to add a number six to their squad last summer. Javi Martinez was not getting any younger, and his constant injuries also meant that he was not available for a complete campaign. The club was heavily linked with a move for Espanyol’s Marc Roca, but the deal never materialized.

Kovac decided to fill the number six void by moving Joshua Kimmich in central midfield. Moreover, Pavard’s arrival meant that the Croatian manager had a reliable right-back. Twelve months down the line, Kimmich’s move to central midfield has turned out to be a masterstroke.

Kimmich may lack physical prowess like a typical defensive midfielder, but his astute positioning meant that he always remained one step ahead of his opponents. The German midfielder can sit deep, providing the protection back four, and dictate the tempo of the game. His passing range gave the team an impetus from central positions as he can effectively play line-breaking passes.

The German international also switches to a number eight role during the game and initiate the pressing from midfield. With the likes of Leon Goretzka and Thiago Alcantara as his midfield partners, Kimmich has helped Die Roten to dictate games against top teams in the Bundesliga and Europe. He will get even better with time, but his first complete season in midfield has set the high standards.