The German midfielder Joshua Kimmich has recently joined the rest of the team to criticize a poll that deemed the nation prefers a German football team with white players. According to a survey by the national broadcaster ARD, as many as 21% said that more white players should be included in the German football team. However, this was randomly drawn from a pool of 1,304 participants.
Speaking to these findings, Kimmich had no qualms in his choice of language as he described it as absolutely racist. Kimmich’s definite dismissal of survey results implies an uncomplicated anti-racism in sports.
Unity and Diversity in Football Amidst Joshua Kimmich’s Stance
However, Kimmich’s comments have aptly summarized the aspects of team unity, similarities, and differences observed in football. He stated that football is the tool that brings people together, which does not differentiate nationality, color, or even religion. Although, noting the diversification of people in the national team, Kimmich showed how inclusion and unity are good in an event that is sports. speaking on Saturday, in his words;
“Anyone who’s grown up with football knows this is absolute nonsense. Football in particular is a good example of how you can unite different nations, different skin colors and different religions,”
“That’s what our team is all about. I would miss a lot of players if they weren’t here. This is absolutely racist and has no place in our changing room.”
This statement was made at the team training camp in Herzogenaurach as they prepare to host Euro 2024. Additionally, the calls for reform while respecting individual rights amidst Racism in football should be critically addressed. However, reforms should not only tackle racism but the inclusion of the football environment as a welcoming place for all. Meanwhile, several agitations for equal rights in the football community have been ongoing like the LGBTQ+ community.
Furthermore, Kimmich addresses the team’s culture amidst hindrances on the field as they set to host the European championship.
“When you consider that we are about to host a European Championship at home, it’s absurd to ask such a question when the aim is actually to unite the whole country,
“It’s about achieving great things together. As a team, we’re trying to get everyone in Germany behind us.”
Joshua Kimmich’s Vision and Preparations for Germany in Euro 2024
The roster for the German national team proves Kimmich’s vision of change even more emphatically. Having six Black footballers, the team embraces players of different colors, origins, and genders. Such observations from Kimmich show that the entire team is working to bring together the whole nation as they start preparations for an upcoming international tournament. Thus, when calling for participants to be themselves in the championship contest while rejecting racial preferences, Kimmich restates the team’s solidarity goals.
Conclusion
As the German national football team looks forward to the Euro 2024, they hope to have an impressive outing. However, Kimmich’s stand against racism is a stark reminder of the ideals within football. Meanwhile, the team’s upcoming friendly against Ukraine and Greece should be used as a platform to demonstrate their Unity. As the Euro 2024 commences in June, Kimmich and his fellow footballers can best set an example for unity and inclusion, while standing against discrimination.
Also Read: Real Madrid Conquers Europe Again: Spanish Warriors Earn 15th Champions League Trophy Triumph
About the Author
Edmund Jaja is a sports enthusiast, Content Writer, Editor, and Storyteller from Nigeria with a background in psychology. He’s been a die-hard Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United fan since the Fergie era, with the zeal and passion to inspire through writing.
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