Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich insists Germany not among World Cup favourites

Now 31 and representing Bayern Munich at club level, Kimmich has taken on a central leadership role since becoming Germany's primary captain in 2024, succeeding Manuel Neuer following his international retirement.

The midfielder acknowledged that his outlook has shifted over time, with his responsibilities extending beyond personal performance to guiding the collective.

Germany's recent tournament record has undercut their historical pedigree. Despite their four World Cup titles, consecutive group-stage exits at the last two editions have significantly damaged their standing in international football.

Kimmich admitted those failures weigh heavily, warning that the team can no longer be considered among the leading contenders.

"We are no top favourite because we have not delivered in the past tournaments," said Kimmich, via DFB.de.

"When the first match starts, it's only about that match and nothing else, completely detached from how past tournaments went."

He added: "You grow into a different role over the years. I have a different role as captain than I did in the tournaments four or eight years ago. The record is not good, but that doesn't change the approach to the tournaments."

Under head coach Julian Nagelsmann, the focus is now on rebuilding momentum ahead of the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across United States, Canada and Mexico.

Attention in the short term turns to a friendly clash with the Switzerland in Basel, where Kimmich and his teammates will look to begin restoring belief. 

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