AnalysisKimmich Shines in Hybrid Right-Back Role Under Kompany Against Dortmund
Joshua Kimmich demonstrated his tactical versatility once again in Bayern’s 2–1 win over Borussia Dortmund, adapting his role from midfield to a deeper, right-sided position under Vincent Kompany’s direction.
A tactical adjustment in the engine room
Normally Bayern’s central playmaker, Kimmich altered his positioning throughout the top-of-the-table clash. With Aleksandar Pavlović taking on a more advanced role, Kimmich dropped deeper — often positioning himself between Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano to counter Dortmund’s aggressive pressing.
His adjusted role effectively made him a hybrid right-back, supporting Sacha Boey and providing balance in Bayern’s buildup play. The tactical tweak allowed Pavlović to move higher, helping Luis Díaz on the left wing and opening new passing lanes through midfield.
“The first half was very, very good. Dortmund did better in the second half. But you could tell they had a real team on the pitch.” — Joshua Kimmich
Dominating the buildup phase
Kimmich’s deeper position was crucial in maintaining control under pressure. Statistical analysis from tz München shows he completed 44 passes in his own half with a 95% accuracy rate, compared to Pavlović’s 27 passes in the same area at 96% accuracy.
This tactical redistribution helped Bayern progress the ball safely through Dortmund’s high press while maintaining possession dominance in key phases of play.
Reactions from teammates
Pascal Groß admitted Bayern’s new shape created some early challenges but credited Kimmich’s influence for restoring control: “We wanted to settle in, go for the second balls, and get behind the last line,” Groß explained. “That didn’t work at first — partly due to Kimmich’s positioning.”
Nevertheless, Kimmich’s adjustment ultimately gave Bayern stability, as Harry Kane and Nicolas Jackson filled the central spaces created by his deeper movement.
Another masterclass in adaptability
At 30, Kimmich continues to redefine his influence at Bayern. Whether orchestrating play from midfield or stepping into defensive duties, his intelligence and adaptability remain key to Kompany’s evolving system.
Keywords: Joshua Kimmich, Bayern Munich, Vincent Kompany, Borussia Dortmund, tz München, Aleksandar Pavlović, Sacha Boey, tactical analysis, Bundesliga, hybrid right-back