Coach Thomas Tuchel, who publicly criticized Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich), suddenly defended Kim Min-jae.


"Kim Min-jae will always have our support," Tuchel said at a press conference ahead of his showdown with Stuttgart in the 32nd round of the 2023-2024 Bundesliga on the 3rd.


Kim Min-jae, who moved to Munich in the 2023-2024 season, is having a hard time these days. He was lagging behind Eric Dier in the competition to become a starting member, and when he got a chance to play, he also showed below-expected performance.


In particular, in the first leg of the 2023-2024 UEFA Champions League (UCL) semifinals against Real Madrid on the 1st, he tried to defend actively, but rather gave up two runs. Munich drew the first leg 2-2 due to Kim Min-jae's mistake, increasing the burden of the second leg, and Tuchel criticized Kim Min-jae's play, saying, "It was too greedy."


Tuchel's direct hit caused various reactions not only in Korea but also in Europe. Some said that pointing out Kim Min-jae's mistake is something that a coach can do, but he might not protect his players.


Was he conscious of this? Tuchel displayed a more gentle attitude during a press conference ahead of the match against Stuttgart.


"I already talked to (Kim Min-jae) during halftime and after the game ended," Tuchel said. "Apart from trying to intercept the ball offensively, there are also various defense methods. He can also play passive defense."


"Kim Min-jae prefers aggressive defense. This is Kim Min-jae's style. He must have learned a lesson from his mistakes," he said. "Mistakes come from good passion. I will support him."


"Kim Min-jae showed good performance in matches against Union Berlin and Arsenal, and he showed good performance in training," Tuchel said. "He will always receive our support and support. Mistakes come from making good attempts. It is not appropriate to point fingers at Kim and use him as a scapegoat."


Meanwhile, Munich is not in perfect physical condition due to injuries to central defenders Matheis the Licht and Dayo Upamecano. The only remaining central defender resources are Kim Min-jae and Dyer, and Kim Min-jae may have another chance.


Attention is focusing on whether Kim Min-jae will be able to recover his pride by showing good performance for the rest of the season. 안전놀이터