Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich defends decision to not get vaccinated

“I am, of course, aware of my responsibility”

Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has defended his decision to not get vaccinated, suggesting that he is ‘unsure about the lack of long term studies’.

On Friday, it was reported that the 26-year-old was unvaccinated, leading the German international to address the news about his vaccination status after Bayern’s 4-0 triumph over Hoffenheim on Saturday.

Kimmich confirmed that he is not vaccinated, but insisted that he is following all of the relevant protocols.

When the former RB Leipzig man was asked why he was not vaccinated, he provided a clear and concise response.

“Because I’m unsure about the lack of long term studies,” Kimmich told Sky Sports.

“I am, of course, aware of my responsibility, I follow all hygiene measures and get tested every two to three days — everyone should make the decision for themselves.

“Nevertheless, I am neither a COVID denier nor an anti-vaxxer.

“I also don’t say categorically that I won’t get vaccinated at all. It is very possible that I will get the vaccine in the future.”

Kimmich: "Nevertheless, I am neither a Covid denier nor an anti vaxxer. I also don't say categorically that I won't get vaccinated at all. It is very possible that I will get the vaccine in the future" pic.twitter.com/XZueMNdmSm

— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) October 23, 2021

Kimmich – who has publicly committed to the initiative ‘#WeKickCorona’ since the start of the pandemic – has made 275 appearances for the three-time Champions League winners, scoring 33 goals and registering 75 assists.

In recent weeks, NBA star Kyrie Irving has also defended his decision to not get vaccinated, insisting that he is doing what is best for him.

The Brooklyn Nets guard admitted that, whilst he didn’t want to lose salary or miss games, he was doing “what’s best for me” by refusing to get the Covid-19 vaccine.