Joshua Kimmich to Arsenal: Why Arteta should make it happen - Bonus edition
A closer look at how Joshua Kimmich could fit in at Arsenal following the links to the German international
I had to jump on the Kimmich links with my thoughts before he inevitably signs a new deal in a few days! So here’s a bonus edition this week! Let me know your thoughts in the comments, would he be a good fit?
Photo by Granada, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Arsenal appear to have the chance to make a significant addition to their squad this summer with Joshua Kimmich set to end his long partnership with Bayern Munich, according to numerous reports across Europe.
The term 'opportunity' is often brought up in the transfer market and this appears to be exactly that.
Kimmich, the versatile German international, is reportedly seeking a move away from Bayern Munich, and Arsenal are among the five clubs he would consider joining. Here's why Arsenal should seize the chance to sign Kimmich without hesitation.
Kimmich's arrival at Arsenal would level up their midfield and help maximise the effectiveness of their existing key assets.
Known for his impeccable passing, Kimmich would be an ideal partner for Declan Rice. While Rice excels in a box-to-box role, his performance is often influenced by the stability and support provided by his midfield partner. We saw this with Jorginho often paired with Rice in 2024.
Kimmich’s reliability, vision on the ball and off-the-ball reading of the game would allow Rice to thrive in a dynamic role on his preferred left side of the midfield.
Kimmich’s ability to dictate play from deep, combined with Rice's defensive prowess, athleticism and forward thrusts, would create a balanced and formidable midfield duo. This partnership would not only enhance Arsenal's control of games but also improve their transitions from defence to attack, making them a more cohesive and dangerous unit.
Here’s an example of how Arsenal could build up an attack down the right-hand side with Kimmich in the team. You would build several highly technical triangle combinations and then an overload at the back post in the left winger, Rice and Havertz, creating the option for an early cross, or a cut-back if we work it to that point.
A downside of Kimmich is his lack of athleticism. In this example, when Rice pushes forward, Timber at left-back can subsequently invert to cover Rice and sit more centrally. He’s very athletic and can form a double pivot with Kimmich to help prevent the counter.
Kimmich's versatility is one of his standout attributes. His experience as a right-back would be invaluable for Arsenal’s tactical flexibility. With Kimmich filling the right side of the midfield, Ben White would have the freedom to push forward more frequently to support Bukayo Saka. This dynamic could unlock the best in Saka, providing him with the space and support to maximise his attacking potential.
Too often last season, Saka was isolated on the right and outnumbered by numerous opponents. Arteta must ensure he can support one of his star assets to excel.
We know Thomas Partey looks likely to leave the club this summer, and he is similar to Kimmich in the fact he plays on the right side and can fill in at right-back.
Partey is also one of the clubs biggest earners and Kimmich would command a significant wage. Therefore Partey’s departure is potentially a key factor in the arrival of Kimmich in North London.
The flexibility offered by Kimmich also means Mikel Arteta could switch formations more fluidly during games, adapting to different opponents and situations. Kimmich's presence would allow Arsenal to transition seamlessly between a back four and a back three and other build-up shapes, giving Arteta the tools to outmanoeuvre opponents tactically.
At 29, Joshua Kimmich brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having won multiple Bundesliga titles, the Champions League, and various domestic cups with Bayern Munich, Kimmich has been a part of one of Europe’s most successful teams. His experience in high-pressure situations and big games would be invaluable to an Arsenal side that has often faltered in crucial moments. Not reliant on pace, like Jorginho, he is likely to be able to play well into his 30s.
Photo by Steffen Prößdorf, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Common
Kimmich's leadership qualities and winning mentality would also provide a positive influence in the dressing room. Young players, in particular, would benefit from his guidance and example, fostering a culture of excellence and professionalism at the club.
Joshua Kimmich represents a significant opportunity for Arsenal. His technical prowess, versatility, and experience would address multiple areas of need for the Gunners, while also providing a significant boost to their tactical and strategic capabilities.
In a summer where the club aim to take another step and to build on their progress and challenge for top honours, securing Kimmich’s signature could be the decisive factor that propels them to success. Arsenal should act swiftly and decisively to bring Kimmich to The Emirates.
Find more daily Arsenal content on fresharsenal.com