Kimmich demands more from Bayern defence: “We definitely need to improve”

The Bavarians’ midfielder remained calm and took a practical approach when discussing Bayern’s defensive frailties in recent weeks.

Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich discussed reasons why he feels the Bavarians have trailed in six of their last eight games in recent weeks. 

“We were very, very often behind in recent weeks. There are always situations we can defend better. Especially set pieces – we have to defend them better,” he told Sport BILD. 

“We also need to concede fewer chances, meaning fewer corners, fewer free kicks, fewer throw-ins. We definitely need to improve on that so we don’t go behind so often. 

“I also have the feeling that we haven’t been able to decide games as early anymore. We often had a big lead at halftime at the beginning of the season.

“We haven’t managed that so much now. In the future, we need to play in a way that allows us to decide games earlier. If you don’t decide games, they simply remain open.

“Then anything is possible in football – either through a set piece, a long ball, or a superb pass,” Kimmich explained in detail.

On Sunday, the German record champions had to battle back from a losing position to snatch a 2-2 draw against a stubborn bottom-placed Mainz side.