Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka, Bayern Munich's hit duo on and off the pitch
Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka's flourishing partnership has reaped dividends on the pitch for Bayern Munich and off it for over 500 charities after the pair collected more than 5.2 million euros (5.7 million dollars) in donations to their 'We Kick Corona' campaign.
Goretzka joined the record Bundesliga champions from Schalke in 2018, moving to the Allianz Arena where Kimmich had developed into a full Germany international since his arrival from RB Leipzig in 2015.
After a bedding-in campaign for Goretzka in 2018/19, the rangy midfielder played a central role - quite literally - in Bayern's 2019/20 Bundesliga and DFB Cup double win, slotting in alongside Kimmich in front of the Bayern back four.
Their understanding and complementary styles came to the fore, perhaps no surprise for two talented 25-year-olds born just two days apart.
"We both have a very good, positive mentality. On the pitch, we can carry each other along and spur each other on," Kimmich told SportBild. "He's more likely to focus on the attacking side of the game while I'm more likely to drop back to take part in the build-up.
"We're very strong physically, which helps us when we're not in possession. We complement each other really well."
Watch: All of Kimmich's goals and assists in 2019/20
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The dogged determination and laser-precision distribution of Kimmich and Goretzka's ability to successfully blend goal-making and taking with defensive duties have made the duo a huge hit on the pitch.
And their combined talents clearly extend beyond the white line with their 'We Kick Corona' proving wildly successful for good causes across Germany.
Former Bayern man Mats Hummels and the Bavarian giants' new signing Leroy Sane were among those who donated to the cause the pair set up during the COVID-19-enforced break in the season, and they have collected an impressive total of €5.2 million ($5.7 million) so far.
"Thanks to the support of a numerous sports professionals, FC Bayern and thousands of fans, we have collected €5.2 million in donations and can support more than 500 projects across Germany," explained Goretzka, who kicked off the fund with Kimmich with a €1 million ($1.15 million) donation from their own pockets.
"It's impressive to see the breadth and diversity of voluntary work in our country. To be able to promote this makes us extremely grateful."
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