Germany legend Lothar Matthäus has criticised head coach Julian Nagelsmann for deploying captain Joshua Kimmich at right-back, insisting the Bayern Munich star is being held back in the position.
The former Germany captain made the comments following Die Mannschaft’s 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in their final Group E match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The result has sparked debate over Germany’s tactical setup ahead of the Round of 32, with Matthäus urging Nagelsmann to restore Kimmich to central midfield.
Speaking to Bild, Matthäus said the Germany captain was unable to influence games from the right side of defence.
“Do him a favour and get him out of the backline. I don’t see the Joshua on the pitch that I’ve known for years,” Matthäus said.
“At Bayern Munich, he is absolute world-class.
“In terms of his body language and positioning, I don’t see him as someone who leads the team or exerts influence when things aren’t going well. From the right-back spot, he just can’t seem to manage it.”
Nagelsmann, however, defended his decision to use Felix Nmecha and Aleksandar Pavlovic in midfield, describing the pair’s performance as satisfactory.
“I don’t want to do without either Felix or Pavlo,” the Germany coach said after describing the midfield duo’s display as “good”.
Nagelsmann also pointed to Kimmich’s performances at Euro 2024, saying he had been “a top right-back with by far the best statistics.”
Germany’s options are further complicated by the absence of a recognised specialist right-back in the World Cup squad.
Nathaniel Brown has been dealing with an injury, while David Raum struggled during the defeat to Ecuador, leaving Nagelsmann with limited alternatives should Kimmich return to midfield.
Kimmich declined to fuel the debate over his preferred role, insisting that his position is entirely the manager’s decision.
Germany will now turn their attention to Monday’s Round of 32 clash in Boston, where Nagelsmann’s side will face one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
