Joshua Kimmich has ended speculation about his future by signing a new contract with Bayern Munich, keeping him at the club until 2029, despite interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain.
MUNICH, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 23: Joshua Kimmich of Bayern Munich recieves treatment from the physio after sustaining an injury during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and Eintracht Frankfurt at Allianz Arena on February 23, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Leonhard Simon/Getty Images)
Photo by Leonhard Simon/Getty Images
With his previous deal set to expire in just four months, Bayern Munich had reportedly withdrawn their initial contract offer after Kimmich hesitated to provide a response.
Negotiations stalled as the 30-year-old was believed to be seeking a higher salary than what was initially offered.
However, following reports that Bayern had imposed a deadline, Kimmich ultimately committed his future to the Bundesliga giants.
The extension marks Kimmich’s 10th season at Bayern Munich, having joined from RB Leipzig in 2015. During his time at the club, he has made over 400 appearances and won 20 trophies.
MUNICH, GERMANY: Joshua Kimmich of FC Bayern München runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and 1. FSV Mainz 05 at Allianz Arena on March 09, 2024. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
Announcing the extension, Bayern president Herbert Hainer praised Kimmich’s influence on and off the pitch: “Compliments to our sporting management and our board. FC Bayern needs players who not only bear the shirt but also responsibility – on and off the pitch. And Joshua Kimmich is one of those players.”
Kimmich confirmed his decision with a symbolic gesture, planting a tree in a club video while delivering a statement of commitment. “What does it take to be successful at Bayern? You have to work hard. Weather the storm sometimes. Be rooted in this club. And you have to want something to last. That’s exactly why I’m staying here.”
MUNICH, GERMANY: Joshua Kimmich of FC Bayern München runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between FC Bayern München and SS Lazio at Allianz Arena on March 05, 2024. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
On the club’s official website, he further explained: “At FC Bayern, I have the best environment to achieve my sporting goals. That is what my decision was based on. For me at the moment, there is no better package of teammates, coaching staff, and club environment in order to achieve maximum success. I feel at home here and I am not finished yet.”
The contract renewal is a blow for Arsenal, who had been monitoring Kimmich as a potential midfield addition.
With Thomas Partey and Jorginho approaching the end of their contracts, Mikel Arteta had been keen to strengthen his midfield options.
However, the Gunners will now have to look elsewhere.