▲ Kim Min-jae of Bayern Munich
South Korean national team central defender Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich), whose position within his club was reported to be uncertain, is expected to remain with the team for the new season following a change in the club's stance, according to local media reports.
The German edition of Sky Sports reported on July 14 (KST) on the internal atmosphere regarding Kim, with the headline, "Kim Min-jae is no longer a candidate for sale by Munich."
The outlet reported, "In Munich's central defense, which is packed with star players, Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah are indispensable figures," adding, "Kim Min-jae was actually a player with a high possibility of transferring this summer. However, the club's policy has now changed."
It further stated, "It is highly likely that Kim Min-jae will support Upamecano and Tah for the time being," but added, "According to our reporting, Munich has internally revised its plans, and Kim Min-jae is no longer classified as a player for sale."
The report added, "Unless a massive offer arrives this summer, Munich will head into the new season with Kim Min-jae."
Kim transferred to Munich from Napoli (Italy) in 2023 for a transfer fee of 50 million euros (approximately 84.8 billion won).
His contract with Munich runs until 2028.
To date, Kim has appeared in 116 official matches for Munich, recording 5 goals and 3 assists.
Last season, he played in 37 matches, recording 1 goal and 1 assist.
In particular, he demonstrated his full potential toward the end of the season, proving his value.
Kim also participated in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America as a member of the South Korean national team.
Although the national team finished third in its group with 1 win and 2 losses, failing to advance to the Round of 32, Kim started in all 3 group stage matches.
As part of its preparations for the new season, Munich is scheduled to play a friendly match against K League 1 side Jeju SK in Jeju Special Self-Governing Province on August 4.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)