Did Kimmich Call for Unity After Germany Secured 2026 World Cup Qualification?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kimmich's leadership is crucial for team unity.
- The importance of small gestures in building a winning culture.
- Germany's squad is evolving with emerging young talents.
- Kimmich's focus on individual performance is key for the World Cup.
- Team chemistry off the pitch boosts confidence on the pitch.
Berlin, Nov 18 (NationPress) Joshua Kimmich wore a calm smile as he addressed the media following Germany's emphatic 6-0 victory over Slovakia, which ensured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He emphasized the significance of small gestures in fostering a winning mentality. For Newcastle's striker Nick Woltemade, this means receiving a playful cartoon frog, as reported by Xinhua.
"I always send him a Fritzle cartoon in a celebration pose whenever he scores for Newcastle," the 30-year-old captain shared, referring to the mascot from Woltemade's previous team, Stuttgart.
Kimmich's early contribution was pivotal on Sunday, with a crucial tackle in the 15th minute followed by an accurate cross that allowed Woltemade to net the opener. The humorous messages afterward, Woltemade confessed, play a role in easing tension.
"It's amusing, but I find myself waiting for him after our club matches," the striker chuckled.
Maintaining team cohesion seems like another role for Kimmich, who has seamlessly transitioned between midfield and fullback while consistently delivering exceptional performances.
"Before the match, I reminded the team that the World Cup represents the pinnacle for any footballer," he stated.
Kimmich acknowledged the return to form of Florian Wirtz and praised winger Leroy Sane, noting that the synergy off the field is key to building the confidence now visible to fans.
"They enjoy each other's company," he noted. Regarding Sane, he remarked, "He’s the toughest player I know. It's our duty to keep him in a positive mindset."
He also highlighted the upcoming stars: Felix Nmecha from Borussia Dortmund, Nathaniel Brown from Frankfurt, Assan Ouedraogo from RB Leipzig, along with Bayern talents Lennart Karl and Tom Bischof.
The message has resonated.
"He once shared with me his ambition to play in a World Cup's last-16 match, and more. His insights truly inspired me," remarked Nico Schlotterbeck, a defender for Dortmund.
Kimmich concluded with a grounded reminder.
"We must prioritize our clubs and individual performance levels to prepare adequately for the World Cup," he stated.
Germany will face Cote d'Ivoire next in a friendly match scheduled for March in Stuttgart.