Hansi Flick was just chatting about the advantages of Thomas Müller when his cell phone suddenly vibrated. “Now Joshua Kimmich is calling,” said the national coach and laughed: “I’ll write that I’ll call you back right away.” Whether Kimmich wanted to bring him the happy news of the expected birth of his third child or cancel for the classic against the Netherlands on Tuesday (8.45 p.m., ARD) in Amsterdam was initially unclear.
Flick continued his remarks with an opponent analysis. Only when Flick had answered all the journalists’ questions did the national coach return and say: “You can calm down, everything is calm.” In an interview with ARD radio, Flick added: “The youngsters are still a bit of a wait, they’re not ready yet.”
That’s why he told Kimmich to stay at home. “Of course he’s divided, he always wants to win international caps, but that’s the best decision. He wouldn’t have had a moment’s peace here.” In any case, football is “a minor matter in these times. Birth is much more important.” Kimmich must therefore also fit against Oranje. The midfield boss had already missed the start of the World Cup year against Israel (2-0) because of the upcoming birth.
Against Holland with Neuer and Rüdiger
Flick also announced that he will play against the Netherlands with captain Manuel Neuer in goal and defender Antonio Rüdiger in the starting XI. “That is a central axis,” said the national coach. Jamal Musiala described Flick as an “option” for the World Cup friendly.
The DFB head coach did not want to comment on any further personnel changes compared to the 2-0 win against Israel. Flick left it open whether Timo Werner would act as a striker or whether his Chelsea colleague Kai Havertz would move forward from attacking midfield. He is also particularly looking forward to seeing former Bayern coach Louis van Gaal again as Oranje coach.