Bayern Munich legend Karl-Heinz Rummenigge backs Joshua Kimmich, but wishes he would get his vaccine

Bayern Munich club legend Karl-Heinz Rummenigge was “surprised” to hear that star midfielder Joshua Kimmich was not vaccinated, but thinks the Germany international could take the jab soon.

“Of course it came as a surprise that he is not vaccinated,” said Rummenigge said on Bild TV (as captured by Tz). “I am convinced that he may be vaccinated soon. He may be the Bundesliga player who is a role model in many things. I know him as a great person, as his ‘We kick Corona’ initiative shows. That has now led to a discussion. In February of this year, I suggested that it would be wise to vaccinate footballers early — as a role model for everyone else. I’ve been horribly criticized. Now it has turned a little.”

Rummenigge noted that Kimmich has followed protocols and that he “acts very responsibly” and that he is tested every other day.

“He is a totally responsible person and player. We can be very happy that he is part of these two teams in our country,” Rummenigge said of Kimmich’s status with Bayern Munich and the German national team. “The vaccination requirement is not football, but politics. Due to the fact that one or the other is not vaccinated in Bavaria, we now have a discussion. But that shouldn’t be introduced through football. I basically believe that FC Bayern has drawn attention to this. But it’s no use if players have concerns. We go around in circles. I have had two vaccinations because I want to go to the restaurant or the stadium without being tested.”