Former soccer world champion Lukas Podolski believes the debate about vaccination doubter Joshua Kimmich is exaggerated.

"I do not understand why Joshua Kimmich is portrayed as a serious criminal, I do not understand the discussion," said Podolski to the newspaper Bild am Sonntag.

The 36-year-old said it would “not do justice to the FC Bayern national player to pillory him for something like that”.

Kimmich recently admitted that he was not vaccinated against the corona virus.

With partial understanding, this resulted in severe criticism.

The 26-year-old explained that he had “a few personal concerns, especially when it comes to the lack of long-term studies”.

The outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel told the FAZ that there are “very good factual arguments that are generally available for his questions and doubts”.

Therefore, she hopes that Kimmich will reconsider his decision.

"He is known as a very reflective footballer," said the CDU politician.

Podolski, however, affirmed: “Everyone can decide for themselves what to do.” He was infected with the coronavirus without being vaccinated, but according to his own statements, he only experienced a milder course of the disease with flu-like symptoms.

Every professional footballer is informed by clubs and doctors about the risks and side effects of a vaccination, said Podolski.

"As Joshua Kimmich - or any other player - you have the right to say: I don't want to be vaccinated yet," added Podolski.

Clear up rumors of long-term consequences

Meanwhile, the new President of the Bundestag Bärbel Bas (SPD) offered Kimmich a conversation about corona and vaccines. “I like to meet Joshua Kimmich for coffee. Because I am even grateful to him for having reopened the debate about the long-term consequences of vaccinations before winter, ”Bas told the Düsseldorf newspaper Rheinische Post.

Using the example of the prominent soccer professional, politicians and scientists should clear up rumors of long-term damage.

“Maybe even more people will be convinced to have a vaccination before they are caught by the fourth wave that is now rolling.

In this respect, Joshua Kimmich's statement comes at the right time from my point of view, ”said the previous health politician Bas.

Despite millions of vaccinations, there is no evidence of long-term damage from vaccines against the coronavirus.