Kimmich claims not to be an anti-vaxxer
Bayern Munich are expected to insist that midfielder Joshua Kimmich is vaccinated against Covid-19 due to his status as a "role model."
The German international explained his reasons after Bayern's game against Hoffenheim on Saturday night, stating that he had "concerns about the lack of long-term studies."
However he has faced criticism with former CEO of the Bavarian giants Karl-Heinz Rummenigge now actively stating that he should get vaccinated.
Kimmich has stressed that he is "not a corona denier or an anti-vaxxer" and is "of course aware of my responsibility" but believes that "everyone should make the decision for themselves."
Rummenigge – who stepped down as Bayern CEO at the end of last season - told
Mundo Deportivo that with the profile the 26-year-old has, he should prioritise getting the vaccine.
He said: "First of all, I would like to tell Kimmich that as a Bundesliga player he is a role model.
"I know him too as a great person. Of course, it was a surprise that he was not vaccinated. That has now led to a huge discussion.
"In February this year I suggested that it would be wise to vaccinate footballers as soon as possible, as they are role models for everyone else. That is why I have been horribly criticised. Now it has changed a bit."
The former Bayern official also said that while he believes Kimmich is showing a degree of responsibility, it is more important that he receives the vaccine and thinks he will sooner rather than later.
He said: "What Joshua does is very responsible because what he does is wait to see if there are any long-term side effects for himself, but as a role model, it would be better if he was vaccinated.
"I am convinced that he will soon be vaccinated because he is a totally responsible player."
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