The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup™ concluded in disappointment for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, eliminated on their home turf at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, while PSG continued their dominant run as reigning Champions League winners.
Fans hoping for a Korean showdown between Kim Min-jae and Lee Kang-in were left disappointed, as both players remained on the bench throughout the match. Min-jae, in particular, hasn’t played a single minute in the tournament despite recovering from injury. Meanwhile, Kang-in was fully fit but was not utilized by PSG manager Luis Enrique.
Kim Min-jae’s position at Bayern appears increasingly fragile. New signing Jonathan Tah has started all five Club World Cup matches, forming a solid partnership with Dayot Upamecano. Despite some mistakes, Tah’s performances have made a strong case for a permanent starting role next season, potentially relegating Kim to the bench.
Sporting director Max Eberl added fuel to speculation, stating in an interview with Bild, “Kim Min-jae and Palhinha will remain with the team until the end of the Club World Cup. After that, we’ll see how the transfer market unfolds.”
According to German media, Bayern Munich is open to offers for Kim, with an asking price reportedly around €35 million. Interest is already brewing from top European clubs, notably AC Milan, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
If Kim wants regular playing time and to secure his spot on Korea’s national team, a move away from Allianz Arena might be inevitable.
