Joshua Kimmich from FC Bayern is not vaccinated against the corona virus.
The player defends himself, Manuel Neuer and Nagelsmann representative Toppmöller also react.
Munich - Even before FC Bayern's game against TSG Hoffenheim, sports director Hasan Salihamidzic said that Joshua Kimmich would comment on the explosive topic.
After the corona infection of coach Julian Nagelsmann, it was leaked before the game that five Bayern professionals have not yet been vaccinated - including Kimmich.
The midfield strategist of Bavaria and the German national team wanted to clarify the matter on Sky TV.
Joshua Kimmich not vaccinated against Corona - Bayern star justifies himself
"Yes, that's right.
Because I personally have a few concerns about the lack of long-term studies.
Nevertheless, I am aware of my responsibility to observe the hygiene rules, "said the Swabian at
Sky
and said:" We test the unvaccinated players every two or three days. "The 26-year-old spoke out very clearly against all those who criticize the unvaccinated.
"Nevertheless, it is not that I am a corona denier or an opponent of vaccinations.
It's a shame: not being vaccinated means that you would be a corona denier or an opponent of vaccinations.
There are people who have concerns.
One should respect that.
As long as you stick to the measures, ”said Kimmich and looked very thoughtful in the TV interview.
I am not a corona denier or vaccination opponent.
Joshua Kimmich from FC Bayern
Joshua Kimmich: FC Bayern star not vaccinated against Corona
The midfielder was repeatedly asked by Sky man Patrick Wasserziehr about his motives.
He then reaffirmed what apparently makes him thoughtful.
“In our society I often have the impression that someone who has not been vaccinated is labeled and put under pressure,” said Kimmich again and with a lot of emphasis in his voice: “I do not say categorically that I will not be vaccinated at all.
I only have concerns. ”At this point in time, Kimmich did not want to answer when it should be.
Together with team colleague Leon Goretzka, Kimmich founded the “We kick Corona” initiative.
This donates, among other things, money for vaccination campaigns as well as social and charitable projects.
Everyone should have access to a vaccination, but Kimmich also emphasized: "Everyone should make the decision themselves."
FC Bayern: Kimmich is not vaccinated - reaction from captain Neuer and FCB board member Salihamidzic
Kimmich's captain Manuel Neuer initially described it as a "private matter" at Sky.
He got vaccinated.
“And I think that it is also essential for all of us that we had so many spectators in the arena today.
But that is everyone's own business. "
Bayern sports director Hasan Salihamidzic had previously said on Sky: "FC Bayern recommends getting vaccinated, just like I do personally, perhaps to enable everyone to have a more normal life, among other things." But because there is no compulsory vaccination in Germany the association "made the recommendation and everyone can decide for themselves."
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Joshua Kimmich from FC Bayern is not vaccinated against the corona virus.
© Imago
Kimmich not vaccinated - Müller reacts split
Thomas Müller also commented on Kimmich that afternoon.
On the Sky microphone, he explained his mixed feelings: “As a friend, this is an absolutely acceptable decision.
Everyone should decide for themselves, ”said Müller.
"As a teammate and if you look at what would be better for everyone around it, the scientific opinion and my opinion is that vaccination would be better."
It is a fine line, an ethical and moral discussion, so Müller.
"I hope that the players who are not vaccinated will change their minds." It is "humanly understandable" if they don't.
“But of course you also want to see that we get out of this corona phase.
As far as I know, vaccination is the best option, ”said Müller.
FC Bayern: Nagelsmann representative Toppmöller comments on Kimmich's refusal to vaccinate
Assistant coach Dino Toppmöller, who, like in the 4-0 Champions League at Benfica Lisbon, represented chief coach Julian Nagelsmann, who was suffering from Corona, said: “I have had myself vaccinated and I am convinced that it is better to do that .
But at the end of the day it's Joshua's decision, and I accept it, and we should all do that. "
All professionals at the German record champions would have had the opportunity to be informed about risks by the internist, said the assistant trainer.
Kimmich decided that “not to do that for now”.
The next few weeks will show whether Nagelsmann's corona infection will change anything in Kimmich's opinion.
Kimmich is likely to continue to be confronted with the topic.
(ck)
List of rubric lists: © via www.imago-images.de
