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Football Insider

Julian Nagelsmann's Tactical Error: How Misusing Joshua Kimmich Is Hindering Germany's Success

Germany legend Lothar Matthaus criticizes Julian Nagelsmann's tactics after World Cup loss to Ecuador, claiming that Joshua Kimmich's potential is being wasted at right-back.

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Julian Nagelsmann's Tactical Error: How Misusing Joshua Kimmich Is Hindering Germany's Success

Julian Nagelsmann holding back 'absolutely world-class' star by playing him in wrong position, says Germany legend

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The Misuse of Joshua Kimmich

In a scathing critique of Julian Nagelsmann's tactical decisions, Lothar Matthaus highlighted the detrimental effect of playing Joshua Kimmich out of position. The versatile midfielder, often hailed as 'absolutely world-class' by pundits, is being held back by being deployed as a right-back. This controversial move has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, with many questioning Nagelsmann's judgement in not utilizing Kimmich to his full potential.

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Impact on Germany's Performance

The repercussions of misusing Kimmich have been evident in Germany's recent matches, notably in the disappointing World Cup defeat against Ecuador. As the current team captain, Kimmich's influence on the pitch is undeniable, yet his impact is significantly diminished when played in a defensive role. The loss to Ecuador has raised concerns about Nagelsmann's tactics and team selection, prompting calls for a reevaluation of Kimmich's position within the squad.

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Looking Ahead

With criticism mounting and pressure increasing on Julian Nagelsmann, the upcoming matches will be crucial for the German national team. Adapting the tactical setup to better suit Joshua Kimmich's strengths could be the key to unlocking Germany's full potential. As Lothar Matthaus emphasizes, identifying and rectifying tactical errors is essential for Germany to bounce back and showcase their true capabilities on the international stage.

Published on Jun 26, 2026