Joshua Kimmich, many FC Bayern fans and perhaps Thomas Tuchel himself probably can’t hear the term “Holding Six” anymore. The coach had called for such a defensively oriented six in the summer – things look different now in winter.
Contrary to Tuchel’s original wish, Bayern will probably not sign a defensive midfielder in the winter transfer phase. “At the moment there is not the greatest need,” said Tuchel after Munich’s 3-0 win at the Bundesliga restart against TSG Hoffenheim.
“We also want to guarantee playing times,” said Tuchel, explaining the change in thinking. “The players also get better because they play, are needed and have a role. It doesn’t serve anyone to simply sign players – they also have to have realistic chances of playing. All of them!”
In the summer, the transfer of Tuchel’s dream player Palhinha from Fulham FC failed in the final stretch. The head coach had previously publicly called for a “holding six” for the Bayern squad, which Joshua Kimmich responded with some consternation by saying that he was a six after all.
FC Bayern is still looking for the right side
In terms of personnel, Tuchel currently has a few options for the defensive midfield: Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Raphael Guerreiro and Aleksandar Pavlovic are available for the double six. Konrad Laimer and winter signing Eric Dier can also play there.
He opened the discussion about the “Holding Six” in the summer “because I was analyzing the players’ characters,” said Tuchel. When taking stock, he noticed that no Bayern player was acting accordingly.
The four main candidates for the defensive midfield are “very similar”. Nobody feels “naturally comfortable in central defense, everyone wants to get into the opponent’s box and finish on goal.” He therefore adapted his game idea to the “strengths” of his stars. “Everything is good,” said Tuchel.
Rather, FC Bayern is keeping its eyes open for a right full-back who is strong in tackles, said the 50-year-old. “If something works, we will do it.”