Saturday’s Klassiker against Borussia Dortmund was an emotionally difficult occasion for Joshua Kimmich, who returned to the Bayern Munich squad following the death of his father.
The midfielder had missed recent matches to spend time with his family during an incredibly difficult period. Despite the circumstances, Kimmich made himself available for the Klassiker, returning to the pitch and helping his teammates in Bayern’s 2-2 draw against Dortmund.
Speaking after the match, Kimmich opened up about
what his father meant to him, admitting that returning to football was difficult, but that being back with the team also provided an opportunity to find some normality amid his grief.
“My dad was by my side and supported me throughout my entire life. It was difficult to come back, but the world keeps turning. I think about him more than anything when I’m out on the pitch. Nevertheless, it was also important for me to help the team today and find a little bit of normality again. The club, the DFB and everyone around us have given my family and me tremendous support over the past few days,” said (as captured by Sky Germany’s Kerry Hau via @iMiaSanMia).
There are moments when football understandably takes a backseat, and this is certainly one of them. Kimmich deserves enormous respect for finding the strength to return during such a difficult time.
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