Discussions
"I wouldn't pick Kim Min-jae, he doesn't have the charisma to lead a defense"
Inter Milan legend Giuseppe Bergomi has said that Kim Min-jae is not the right player for the Nerazzurri's tactics.
Italian media outlet Calcio Mercato reported on Feb. 22 (KST), "The Francesco Acerbi case is unsettling Inter Milan and the club's management. Many names have been thrown around (as a replacement). To clarify the situation, Giuseppe Bergomi spoke to the 'Gazzetta dello Sport'," the publication reported.
Recently, Kim Min-jae's position has been shaky. Kim was a key contributor to Napoli's first Serie A title in 33 years last season. At the end of the season, he was named the league's best defender and team of the year. Munich, in need of central defense reinforcements, wanted him and succeeded in signing him.
Since arriving in Munich's colors, Kim has become a first-choice defender. However, he was not given enough rest at the start of the season as Dayot Upamecano and Matthias De Ligt were injured in quick succession. As his fitness dropped, he struggled a bit.
Munich signed the central defender in the winter transfer window. It was Dier from Tottenham Hotspur. Despite his poor form, the plan was to bolster a thin central defense line. He was expected to be the fourth defense behind Kim Minjae, Upamecano, and De Ligt.
But things are changing. Munich coach Thomas Tuchel has consistently used Dier as Matthias De Ligt's partner. "They win games and work well with the flankers and defensive midfielders. The communication between them is very good," Tuchel said.
"It could change depending on the form of Dayo Upamecano and Kim Min-jae, but they (Dyer and De Ligt) have been playing well lately, so it's likely they'll start again."
At the same time, Kim Min-jae's 'Inter Milan transfer rumor' emerged. The Nerazzurri were recently embroiled in a controversy over racist comments made by their star defender Acerbi. Napoli's Juan Jesus revealed on social media that Acerbi had used the word "Negro," a derogatory term for black people, during a game.
Acerbi, of course, denies the allegations. "There's a misunderstanding," he says, "I'm not racist. I know best what I said," he proclaimed his innocence.
There is speculation that Acerbi could face a ban of at least 10 matches. Kim Min-jae has been touted as his replacement.
Bergomi, who once played for Inter Milan, gave his assessment of Kim. "I don't think central defense in the back three is his role, and he will struggle because he doesn't have the personality or charisma to command a defensive line. He has speed and quality, but he needs other specificities."
"I would not choose Kim Min-jae. In general, he is a reliable player and knows the league. However, Napoli and Inter Milan have different defensive tactics at the back," he added.