According to German sports channel ARD, Kimmich once again spoke about his disappointment after the German team was eliminated in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
In a lengthy post on his professional social media platform, the 31-year-old player candidly told fans, "This summer has been tough." He stated that the blow of Germany's early defeat to Paraguay was "greater than the two group stage exits in 2018 and 2022."
Kimmich was also aware of the reasons behind this immense disappointment. "I play a different role. As the captain, you feel a greater responsibility on your shoulders," he said.
One telling detail is that, according to Der Spiegel, Kimmich was the last German international to leave the World Cup camp. He apologized several times and asked German Football Association staff if there was anything else he could do to help.
What hurt Kimmich the most after being eliminated from the World Cup?
Kimmich now describes his feelings this way: "What bothers me most is that we failed to make the German people proud." He had hoped that the team could "bring a positive and uplifting atmosphere."
After the national team's elimination, Kimmich immediately expressed his frustration on social media. "I'm really completely empty right now," he said, adding that he would need a few days "to recover."
During the summer break, Kimmich has rediscovered the energy and motivation to take on new responsibilities. "In processing all of this, two things have helped me the most: time spent with my family, and topics that have always been on my mind—leadership, culture, values, and entrepreneurship. I've read books, reflected a lot, and seriously considered how to make myself and my environment better," said the aspiring Bayern Munich star.
Kimmich looks forward to a new mission
This profound disappointment might even become an advantage in future tasks. "After a setback, it's actually easier to motivate yourself because you're more eager to prove yourself again," he emphasized.
With Bayern Munich's 2-1 victory over Dortmund in the German Super Cup, Kimmich and the team have had a promising start to the season. Now, his focus is on the tasks ahead for both the club and the German national team: "I'm looking forward to everything that happens next."
Following the humiliating World Cup defeat, several prominent figures in German football, such as Dietmar Hamann and Mario Basler, called for Joshua Kimmich to retire from the German national team. However, sporting director Rudy Völler has previously stated that the 31-year-old will continue to play a key role.
How new German national team coach Jürgen Klopp will use Kimmich is expected to become clear by the end of September at the latest when the next national team match cycle begins.
