When discussing energetic players who constantly attack the flanks, many viewers following matches through 12BET Mobile would naturally think of the world-class fullbacks and wing-backs dominating modern football. Yet Joshua Kimmich’s defensive performance against France, particularly his work against the dangerous Kylian Mbappe, compared favorably with any of them. Kimmich prevented Mbappe from scoring and repeatedly applied pressure, playing a major role in Germany’s clean-sheet victory.
After the match, Kimmich received widespread praise, much as he had following his previous Bayern Munich appearance. His willingness to face difficult challenges directly finally seemed to restore some of the trust he had lost. For a long period, however, his situation had been complicated by disagreements with Bayern, supporters, and even those around the German national team. Much of the tension came from Kimmich’s insistence that he was primarily a number-six defensive midfielder. During that period, discussions surrounding his performances across 12BET Mobile reflected the growing belief that returning to fullback would allow him to rediscover the qualities that originally made him outstanding.
Judging by his performances in the last two matches, Kimmich now appears genuinely willing to embrace that change. He may lack the explosive pace of some modern fullbacks, but his physical strength, positioning, and tactical awareness allow him to stop quick opponents effectively. His movement between the flank and central midfield also gives him opportunities to use the qualities he developed as a midfielder. This hybrid role, combining defensive responsibility with midfield involvement, may ultimately fit him better than either position on its own.
There were still occasional mistakes. During one French counterattack, Kimmich had moved too far forward, temporarily leaving Germany’s defensive structure exposed. However, his intelligence allowed him to recover quickly. He anticipated the next pass, returned to the correct position, and intercepted the ball before France could take advantage. Against Mbappe, he initially struggled to match the forward’s first burst of movement, but on the next attempt he produced a perfectly timed tackle that completely stopped the attack.
The crucial point is that fullback should remain Kimmich’s basic position, with occasional movement into central areas serving as an additional tactical option. Reversing those priorities could send him back to square one and recreate the confusion that previously surrounded his role. Starting as a defender and stepping into midfield when required adds another dimension to his game, while treating midfield as his permanent position and using him only occasionally at fullback can reduce his overall effectiveness.
Kimmich also continues to contribute significantly in attack. His excellent vision and sense of timing allow him to create opportunities from deeper positions. In a previous match, he delivered an outstanding cross for Harry Kane that resulted in a goal, while against France he again produced accurate passes at important moments. His ability to contribute without abandoning his defensive responsibilities gives the team valuable tactical flexibility.
If he maintains this level, Kimmich can once again establish himself among the world’s best players in his position. His recent displays have shown that adapting his role does not mean abandoning his strengths as a midfielder. Instead, those qualities can make him an even more complete fullback, especially when he chooses the right moments to move centrally.
As Kimmich continues rebuilding his reputation, those tracking his resurgence through 12BET Mobile can see clear evidence that letting go of his previous positional obsession may open the door to his best football again. He still possesses the leadership, experience, and ability required to wear the captain’s armband for both Bayern and Germany. If he can release the stubbornness that once held him back and fully embrace this balanced role, the Kimmich supporters admired for years could return. His last two performances provide convincing proof that he is already heading in that direction.