Joshua Kimmich's winning goal in Bayern's game against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday not only kept Bayern on course for the title, but also served as a reminder of the midfielder's importance in that success.
The 25-year-old, who scored a fine curling goal to send Bayern seven points clear at the top of the table, will lead Bayern out again on Saturday against in-form Fortuna Duesseldorf.
The Germany international had joined Bayern in 2015. He has become a leader following the retirement of Philipp Lahm and the failure of Thomas Mueller to find form in recent editions.
"His development has been excellent," coach Hansi Flick said after Kimmich's appearance on Tuesday. "He has played in the center of the defense and we have decided to advance him to the midfield, since that is where I can better use his strength. He moves a lot, stabilizes wards, can attack while supporting the defense. He pushes his teammates forward, is focused and has a winning mentality, not only in the team and in training", added Flick.
Disciplined and tireless, Kimmich has started every Bayern match this season. He scored three goals and prepared five. He has run more than any player in the Bundesliga, when taking average per game as a basis.
His goal against Dortmund, played behind closed doors, could have opened the door for Bayern to win a record eighth German title in a row. Bayern had a difficult start to the season, before the arrival of Flick.
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Even Duesseldorf has turned the whole season around since the arrival of coach Uwe Roesler in January. Has lost just once in the last nine games.
On Wednesday, Fortuna won 2:1 against Schalke and rose to 16th place.
"With this commitment, we have great opportunities to remain in the elite," said Roesler.
