Daily Schmankerl: Kimmich tops kicker’s list of CDMs, Nübel dropped from squad for friendly, Lewandowski up and running, and more!

Joshua Kimmich tops kicker’s list of defensive midfielders, Thiago dropped (kicker)

German soccer magazine kicker recently ranked Bayern Munich’s own Joshua Kimmich as the best central defensive midfielder in the Bundesliga. In the magazine’s summer rankings, he was their best outside-back! The editors at kicker write the following:

Even if his performance in the center is not yet completely mature: Kimmich showed not only his absolute will to win, but also an even better passing game, high presence in direct one-on-ones, and an impressive running performance (12.57 kilometers per 90 minutes, no Bundesliga player ran more). He was all but indispensable for Niko Kovac and also Hansi Flick: Kimmich stood on the pitch the longest of all FC Bayern field players.

The assessment will displease those who view Kimmich as a superior right-back, and there is the catch that kicker does not rate Kimmich or anyone else in the Bundesliga as “world-class.” But as Kimmich grows into the role, he might indeed reach the next level.

The publication had this to say about Thiago Alcantara, who was dropped from the ranking:

It is undisputed that the Spaniard possesses the potential for world-class status. But he never could reach his potential in the Hinrunde. On the contrary: the Bayern pro disappointed through and through.

Servus! Get reacquainted with Oliver Kahn (FCBayernTV)

Robert Lewandowski up and running (FCBayern.com)

Good news on the injury front: the Pole has been raised again! Robert Lewandowski already hit the treadmill at Säbener Strasse yesterday as he continues to make progress on recovering from his recent groin surgery. Bayern is confident that Lewy will be ready for the first game of 2020 against Hertha Berlin on January 19.

Flick said in Doha, “Robert Lewandowski is a top professional. He’s preparing himself now and has no problems. We’re optimistic but have to wait and see how things progress”

Nübel struck from Schalke’s squad for friendly (Bild)

A sign of things to come for the deposed captain of the Royal Blues? Alexander Nübel was dropped from the squad for Schalke’s first friendly match in Spain. The official reason given was the fact that Nübel will remain suspended for two games once the season recommences on account of the red card he received while kung-fu kicking Mijat Gacinovic.

Instead, his backup Markus Schubert will play in goal against Belgian team VV St. Truiden. Many speculate that Schalke may promote Schubert to first keeper and banish Nübel to the bench.

Evan titans have to go through customs

Here’s freshly minted executive board member Oliver Kahn waiting in line at Munich Airport before he flew to Qatar to visit the team.

Coutinho sings!

Guys, Paul Pogba is groggy

Kid’s got skillz (FUMS)

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