Kimmich explains why he isn't vaccinated
Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has explained his reasoning for not having the COVID-19 vaccine.
The 26-year-old played the full 90 minutes as Bayern swept Hoffenheim aside 4-0 at home, with Serge Gnabry, Robert Lewandowski, Eric Choupo-Moting and Kingsley Coman scoring the goals.
It was the second match in succession that fully vaccinated head coach Julian Nagelsmann missed after testing positive for COVID-19, with the 34-year-old also not present for the 4-0 victory over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League on Thursday (AEDT).
Kimmich explained that he is not opposed to the prospect of getting vaccinated at some stage, but he wishes to wait for further research to be conducted.
"I just want to wait for myself when it comes to long-term studies [about the vaccine]," Kimmich said after the game. "Nevertheless, I am aware of my responsibility.
"Of course, I adhere to the hygiene measures. It is also the case that we unvaccinated players at the club are tested every two or three days.
"Nevertheless, it is not now that I am in any way a corona denier or vaccination opponent. I don't say categorically that I won't be vaccinated at all. It's just about the fact that I still have a few concerns. That is why it is very possible that I will be vaccinated in the future."
The Germany international was asked about the initiative 'WeKickCorona' started last year by himself and his Bayern team-mate Leon Goretzka, and Kimmich explained that his aim was to help those affected by COVID-19.
"'WeKickCorona' was about supporting charitable institutions and non-profit purposes that support people who are in need due to corona," Kimmich said.
"We have also donated money to Unicef, which then makes vaccines available. The point is that there are countries that do not have access to the vaccine.
"I think everyone should make the decision for themselves. It [should not be] possible that someone has no access."
