Kimmich Injury Blow Hits Germany Before Key World Cup Clash

Germany dealt a significant setback as captain Joshua Kimmich has been ruled out of their crucial World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg due to an ankle injury, disrupting head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s plans just as the team seeks to solidify their lead in Group A.

Germany Face Luxembourg Without Captain Joshua Kimmich

Germany captain Joshua Kimmich suffered a capsule injury to his right ankle during a training session on Wednesday, as officially confirmed by the German Football Association (DFB). The Bayern Munich midfielder, a central figure for both club and country, will travel with the squad to Luxembourg but will not feature in Friday’s pivotal World Cup qualifier. This news comes as Germany sit joint-top of their group alongside Slovakia, separated only by goal difference.

Kimmich, who has been indispensable as both a midfielder and right-back, expressed on social media his determination to return soon. Posting a photo of himself receiving treatment, the 30-year-old wrote, “Unfortunately, this is my workplace for now. I’m giving it my all to be back on the pitch on Monday.”

Kimmich Injury Forces Tactical Rethink for Germany

Kimmich’s absence forces Nagelsmann to revise his tactical plans, particularly on the right flank. With no other natural right-backs in the squad, Ridle Baku of RB Leipzig is poised for a rare start in the position. Baku, who last started for Germany in November 2021 and recently returned to the national setup, expressed his excitement at the opportunity: “It’s a great feeling to be back with the German national team. I’m looking forward to contributing to the team.”

With David Raum expected to start at left-back, Germany could deploy a pair of Leipzig full-backs, offering fresh energy on the flanks as they look to overcome Luxembourg.

Defensive Woes Deepen With More Injuries

The loss of Kimmich compounds growing defensive concerns. Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck is also sidelined after sustaining a foot injury that required stitches in his last club appearance. These absences leave Germany without two of their key defensive leaders at a critical juncture.

In midfield, Nadiem Amiri has withdrawn due to adductor issues, prompting the call-up of young Assan Ouedraogo. Up front, Karim Adeyemi is suspended and will miss the Luxembourg match, though he is expected back for Monday’s clash with Slovakia.

Leadership Void: Who Wears the Armband?

With Kimmich out and vice-captains Antonio Rudiger and Kai Havertz unavailable, Germany faces a leadership gap. Star winger Leroy Sane, now the most capped player in the squad, is likely to take on additional leadership responsibilities on the pitch.

Nagelsmann’s reliance on squad depth and tactical flexibility will be tested as Germany look to maintain their lead in Group A. The coach may rotate personnel heavily, presenting opportunities for players like Baku, Raum, and potential debutant Ouedraogo to make an impact.

Germany’s Group A Challenge Intensifies

Despite their injury woes, Germany remain favorites to advance directly to the 2026 World Cup. Their last encounter with Luxembourg ended in a comfortable 4-0 victory, with Kimmich notably scoring twice. Luxembourg have struggled defensively in recent meetings, conceding 20 goals in their last four matches against Germany.

Victory on Friday is essential for Germany to stay in control of their qualification destiny ahead of Monday’s home showdown with Slovakia, a match that could determine which team tops the group. For more news and updates on Germany’s World Cup campaign, visit for more news.

Opinion: Can Germany Overcome Adversity?

Germany’s depth will be on full display in Luxembourg. While the absence of Joshua Kimmich is a major blow both tactically and psychologically, the squad’s ability to adapt will be crucial in this critical phase of World Cup qualifying. The upcoming matches will test Nagelsmann’s management and highlight whether Germany’s next generation can rise to the challenge and deliver under pressure.