Should Kim Min-jae (29, Munich), who has just returned from injury, be immediately inserted into the match?

Bayern Munich will face St. Pauli in the '2024-25 Bundesliga Round 27' held at Allianz Arena, Munich's home ground, at 11:30 p.m. on the 29th (Korea time). With 62 points, Munich is in a commanding lead. St. Pauli is in 15th place and facing relegation.

Munich's defense line has been devastated by consecutive injuries. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is out indefinitely due to a calf injury. Alphonso Davies has also suffered a severe injury with a torn Chonbang ligament. To make matters worse, Kim Min-jae's partner, Dayo Upamecano, has a knee injury and is expected to be out for at least three months.

Max Eberl, the Director General of Munich, noted, "Unfortunately, there is always a risk of players returning injured during the A-match break. This time, it’s a significant blow. The absence of Davies and Dayo Upamecano is a burden," expressing concern.

German media 'Bild' reported on the 27th, "The knee injuries of Bayern stars Davies and Upamecano are much more serious than initially expected. Davies has not only torn a ligament but has also been found to have cartilage damage. He has already successfully undergone surgery."

Kim Min-jae is also not in normal condition. He has had hamstring issues since October. Ultimately, his injury worsened ahead of the A-match call-up, which prevented him from coming to Korea.

Coach Hong Myung-bo expressed regret after hearing about Kim Min-jae's condition, releasing him from the call-up, and said, "There are issues with player protection at Munich." This led to a blame game in Germany, stating, "If the Korean national team was worried about Kim Min-jae, they should not have selected him since last October."

Currently, Kim Min-jae has returned to team training earlier and has improved his condition. Given the collapse of the defense line, there are discussions about the early return of Kim Min-jae.

However, there is also a contrary opinion that "If Kim Min-jae pushes himself too much, his condition could worsen."

'Bavarian Football Works' indicated, "Kim Min-jae has been struggling with Achilles tendonitis since 2024. He has been absent from the Korean national team and rested. However, he decided to return to team training early. On the surface, it seems he missed the period where he could have rested and properly treated his injuries."

Then, it was stated, "It seems that Kim Min-jae will participate in the match against St. Pauli and take charge of the defense line. However, should that really be the case? Is it wise to insert him? Kim Min-jae should aim to rest for this match and return for the weekend match," expressing concern for his condition.

In Germany, there is a fierce debate regarding Kim Min-jae's return. Considering the collapsed defense line of Munich, Kim Min-jae is deemed necessary.

However, there are opinions against returning him too hastily, stating that if Kim Min-jae sustains a more serious injury, it could create a significant hole in Munich's championship prospects.

[OSEN]