Joshua Kimmich addressed the media at the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday in a confident and candid press conference ahead of the Champions League quarter-final first leg.
On the occasion: "It's always a very special match. For me, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are the two biggest clubs in the world. We train every day for moments like this. As a kid, I used to come to the stadium even when there wasn't a game on. Even then, I understood how big it was."
On Kane's fitness: "Harry is incredibly important to us — that's obvious. He's a key factor in our game because he's not just a pure finisher. He's an absolute leader, a true role model. He has a special mindset for an attacking player. It would be important for him to be on the pitch tomorrow to provide his leadership qualities." He added emphatically: "He'll even play there in a wheelchair. I expect him to be fit and on the pitch on Tuesday."
On Mbappe: "Mbappe is a player who can help every team. He has extreme individual quality. He is the captain of France. He has decided many games this season, even in close games. He is a weapon. I've played many games against him — we know what to expect."
On the Bernabeu atmosphere: "The atmosphere and the fans here are special. Many times we've come with good intentions but left disappointed. This time, however, the second leg is in Munich, which is an advantage for us."
On last season's exit: "After the first leg, I thought there was more in it for us. In the second leg, Real were clearly the better side. We went back home thinking there could have been more for us. But this year we don't have injured players, which has often been the case when we've played here."
On tactics: "Generally we want to impose our style. Real Madrid can create danger from any situation. It will be important to bring our strengths to the pitch. Of course, we will also adapt to Real Madrid."
