As the football world gears up for yet another pulsating Der Klassiker between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, BVB coach Niko Kovač has taken a moment to praise one of his former players — Joshua Kimmich. Despite now standing on opposite sides of Germany’s fiercest rivalry, Kovač spoke glowingly of the Bayern veteran, calling him a “leader,” a “coach’s dream,” and “the best midfielder and right-back in Germany.”
In an interview captured by @iMiaSanMia, Kovač reflected fondly on his time managing Kimmich during his tenure at Bayern Munich between 2018 and 2019. “I can only say positive things about Jo,” Kovač said. “He gives everything in every second — in training or matches. He’s a natural leader, even when he was surrounded by big stars. His only ‘problem’ is that he’s too good in too many positions. Every coach would want a player like him. For me, he’s the best midfielder — and certainly the best right-back — in Germany.”
Kimmich’s development during Kovač’s time at Bayern was a turning point in his career. Initially seen as a versatile understudy to Philipp Lahm, the German international has since established himself as one of Europe’s most complete players — a midfield general capable of dictating tempo, breaking lines, and leading by example.
While Kovač’s Bayern spell ended abruptly in 2019, his admiration for Kimmich has clearly endured. The Croatian coach, now leading Dortmund, will once again come face-to-face with his former midfield engine when his side travels to the Allianz Arena this weekend for the Bundesliga’s most anticipated fixture.
This weekend’s Der Klassiker carries immense significance: Bayern sit atop the table after a strong start under Vincent Kompany, while Dortmund trail closely behind. A victory for Kovač’s men would close the gap and send a powerful message that the Bundesliga title race is truly alive.
Meanwhile, Kimmich and Bayern enter the clash in formidable form, with Harry Kane in lethal goalscoring rhythm and Jamal Musiala dazzling in midfield. For Kimmich, the challenge of facing his former boss adds another layer of intrigue to a fixture already rich in history and emotion.
Kovač’s admiration for Kimmich highlights the mutual respect shared by two fierce competitors — a rare glimpse of warmth amid the fire of one of Europe’s most passionate rivalries.
With friendship and familiarity giving way to fierce competition, Saturday’s Der Klassiker promises leadership, intensity, and emotion in equal measure.
