SEOUL – Tensions are rising as South Korea's national football team coach, Hong Myung-bo, publicly criticized Bayern Munich for their handling of defender Kim Min-jae's injury. This comes after Kim withdrew from the national squad for two crucial World Cup qualifiers due to an Achilles issue.

Initially included in a 28-man squad for upcoming matches against Oman and Jordan, Kim's sudden withdrawal for "treatment on his left Achilles tendonitis and rehabilitation" raised concerns. Hong expressed frustration, stating that the coaching staff had been aware of "warning signs" hinting at potential aggravation of the injury.

“Unfortunately, Bayern Munich did not properly protect the player to prevent injury, which leaves us facing these critical matches without one of our key players," Hong remarked, emphasizing the importance of player welfare over immediate match needs.

“There have been warning signs since last year that weren't heeded, and we had to prioritize Kim's health. We simply couldn’t risk him playing," he added.

The 27-year-old missed Bayern's recent 1-1 draw with Union Berlin in the Bundesliga, yet he featured in 13 of the team's games since the return from the winter break, indicating a heavy workload.

In Kim’s absence, FC Seoul’s Kim Ju-sung will step in, despite having limited international experience. "Kim Ju-sung trained with the national team last year and understands our system. He’s been performing well in the K League, making him a suitable choice to fill the gap,” Hong explained.

South Korea is in a strong position to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, with the opportunity to clinch one of two automatic qualifying spots from Group B if they manage to defeat Oman in Goyang on Thursday, followed by a match against Jordan in Suwon five days later.

Fans are now left anxious about the ramifications of Kim's injury not only on the national team's immediate performance but also on Bayern Munich’s reputation when it comes to player health and management. Will this incident overshadow Kim Min-jae's promising career at Bayern, or will the South Korean star rebound from this setback? The world watches closely.