Joshua Kimmich has publicly acknowledged the impending departure of his long-time midfield partner Leon Goretzka from Bayern Munich, confirming the end of a significant chapter for the German champions. Goretzka is set to leave the Allianz Arena on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer, concluding an eight-year stay with the club. Kimmich, who is expected to remain with Bayern, described the situation as emotional for everyone involved.
Speaking about his teammate, Kimmich noted the palpable sense of finality. "You can tell he's realising that his time here is slowly coming to an end," Kimmich said. "It's emotional for everyone, including me. We've been playing together at the club for eight years - that's quite a long time when you consider that you have around 15 years as a professional player." The pair arrived at the club in the same summer of 2018, with Kimmich joining from RB Leipzig and Goretzka arriving from Schalke 04.
Together, they formed the core of a dominant Bayern midfield, amassing a formidable collection of trophies. Their shared honours include seven Bundesliga titles, two DFB-Pokal victories, the UEFA Champions League in 2020, the FIFA Club World Cup, and three German Supercups. Their partnership became synonymous with Bayern's success under multiple managers, including Hansi Flick, who led them to the continental treble.
Goretzka's departure marks a deliberate shift in Bayern's midfield planning under new head coach Vincent Kompany, according to sources close to the club. The 29-year-old German international saw his role diminish last season, with younger options like Aleksandar Pavlovic being integrated. A move away now offers Goretzka, who has 57 caps for Germany, the chance for a fresh start and regular playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle.
For Bayern, his exit frees up significant wage space as they look to rebuild their squad following a trophyless campaign. The club's management is reportedly targeting a more dynamic, physical profile in the center of the park. While Kimmich's own future was subject to speculation last season, his recent comments strongly suggest he will remain as a cornerstone of the new project.
There remains a short-term shared objective for the duo before their club paths diverge. Both are key figures in Germany's squad for this summer's European Championship on home soil, offering a final opportunity to chase major silverware together in the coming weeks. Beyond that, Goretzka will become one of the most high-profile free agents on the market, with several top European clubs already linked with a move for the experienced midfielder.
