The Wailing Wall. A defender who conquered the Italian stage meets a monster center back.
Bayern Munich held a club presentation at their home stadium, the Allianz Arena, on Wednesday (July 23). After introducing new defender Kim Min-jae (26), the Bavarians held an open training session in front of the home fans.
One of Europe’s top central defense lines stood together. Kim was named the best defender in the Italian Serie A in the 2022-23 season. He was a key part of Napoli’s core. Under Luciano Spalletti, Kim’s buildup from the back and solid defense helped Napoli win their first Scudetto in 33 years. After a stellar season in Italy, Kim sought a new challenge in Germany with Bayern Munich.
His transfer fee was a bargain compared to his performance. Kim’s buyout was reportedly 50 million euros (approximately 71.2 billion won). TransferMarkt, a website specializing in soccer statistics, estimated his transfer fee at 60 million euros (approximately 85.5 billion won).
Kim’s partner, Matthias De Ligt, 23, is a European talent. He is a monster defender who earned the captain’s armband at Ajax as a teenager. He played for Italian giants Juventus from 2019 to 2022 before moving to Munich last July. The transfer cost a whopping 67 million euros ($95.5 billion).
He is the first-choice center back. Der Licht made 43 appearances for Munich last season. He has been a key resource since the appointment of Thomas Tuchel. His height, quick feet, and leadership make him one of the best defenders in Europe.
Two monster defenders will play together. German publication Bild has projected Kim Min-jae and Der Licht as Munich’s starting center back line for the 2023-24 season. Dayo Upamecano, 24, is also a strong contender, and all three could play at times. Tuchel is known as a European coach with the flexibility to use a back three and a back four. 토토사이트
Der Licht is also excited about the prospect of working with Kim, saying after the open training session: “He’s a great defender. He will be a good signing. He was great at Napoli. I’m glad he’s coming to Munich.”
Kim Min-jae also spoke after the open training session. He said in English: “I’m so happy at this moment. I’m so happy at this moment. I’m happy,” he smiled broadly.
